Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has pledged to step in if necessary, in light of the ongoing investigation into the alleged improper issuance of Fijian passports. This assurance comes as the Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, has indicated his willingness to step aside to facilitate a thorough investigation. The passports in question were reportedly issued to children of individuals associated with the Grace Road Group, which has faced human rights allegations.
In a statement, Mr. Tikoduadua emphasized that the passports were issued without his knowledge or the approval of senior management within the Department of Immigration. He stated that he would comply with Prime Minister Rabuka’s guidance on whether to step down, acknowledging that the Prime Minister has received communication regarding the matter but plans to discuss it directly with him before any conclusions are drawn.
Prime Minister Rabuka expressed a cautious approach, saying, “I will not decide on anything until I speak to him,” and indicated that they are expected to meet soon to discuss the situation further. Meanwhile, the Director of Immigration, Amelia Komaisavai, has been placed on leave as investigations continue.
The Grace Road Group has responded to the allegations, labeling them as “sensationalised false information.” They assert that children born in Fiji are entitled to citizenship under the Citizenship of Fiji Act 2009, and they argue that the situation reflects political bias rather than legal concerns.
In a separate but related matter, the Ministry of Employment has identified violations of employment laws during inspections of the Grace Road Company operations. Minister Agni Deo Singh has vowed to conduct more investigations and ensure compliance with Fijian labor laws, underscoring the importance of safeguarding the rights of all workers, irrespective of their local or migrant status.
This situation highlights the need for transparency in governmental operations and the importance of upholding the rule of law. The Prime Minister’s readiness to address potential mismanagement reflects a commitment to accountability and governance, which is essential for maintaining public trust. As investigations progress, there is hope that this will lead to necessary reforms and improvements within the immigration system and employment practices in Fiji.
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