Opposition MP Mosese Bulitavu has suggested that some former FijiFirst MPs attribute the fall of former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama to the influence of former Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. Bulitavu’s comments were a response to remarks made by Bloc 16 and Opposition MP Jone Usamate, who labeled Sayed-Khaiyum a hypocrite.
According to Bulitavu, it is evident that the G16 in Parliament has a strong aversion to Sayed-Khaiyum and prefers to dissociate from him politically. He argued that many of the senior figures from the previous FijiFirst administration provided valuable advice to Bainimarama, only to be interrupted by Sayed-Khaiyum, whom he claims dominated the legislative process.
In contrast to the previous government, where Sayed-Khaiyum presented bills on behalf of other ministers, Bulitavu highlighted that the current Coalition government allows individual ministers to introduce their own bills. He implied that Sayed-Khaiyum’s advice led the former Prime Minister to neglect input from the Military Council, contributing to his downfall.
Bulitavu commended Usamate for his courage in speaking out as an independent MP and noted that his comments reflected the sentiments of the wider opposition group.
This discourse reveals an ongoing struggle within Fijian politics and indicates a desire for accountability and open dialogue regarding leadership decisions. The current Coalition government’s emphasis on individual ministerial responsibility and collaboration could pave the way for a more balanced and inclusive political landscape, fostering greater transparency and responsiveness to the needs of the public.
In summary, Bulitavu’s remarks shed light on internal divisions within the opposition regarding Sayed-Khaiyum’s influence and the former government’s leadership dynamics, while also hinting at a hopeful shift towards a more collective and accountable approach in the current political climate.
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