Ketan Lal, the Shadow Minister for Justice, is urging Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to take accountability for what he describes as the Coalition Government’s repeated breaches of the 2013 Constitution. His comments come in response to the recent decision by Justice Minister Siromi Turaga to place Commissioner of Corrections Dr. Nakarawa on leave, which Lal argues is both procedurally dubious and an inappropriate exercise of ministerial power.

Lal stressed that the Commissioner of Corrections holds an independent constitutional position, appointed by the President and not subject to direct influence from a line minister concerning employment matters. He cited Section 137(4) of the 2013 Constitution, which stipulates that the President, based on the advice of the Constitutional Offices Commission, has the authority to suspend the Commissioner of Fiji Corrections Service and similar officers.

Critiquing Turaga’s decision, Lal stated that the Minister could have approached the Constitutional Offices Commission if any concerns regarding the Fiji Corrections Service arose, rather than bypassing due process. He expressed that the abrupt removal of Dr. Nakarawa, without transparent communication on the allegations against him, could erode public trust in governmental institutions.

Lal also noted that if Prime Minister Rabuka indeed endorses this decision, it indicates a serious misunderstanding of legal boundaries regarding ministerial powers. He emphasized that such actions could set a perilous precedent for political interference with independent institutions, raising alarm about their implications for good governance.

Moreover, Dr. Nakarawa reportedly has not been informed of the specific allegations against him and has contested the legitimacy of his enforced leave. Lal pointed out that the Coalition Government’s approach illustrates a troubling pattern, citing previous instances like the dismissal of the Director of Public Prosecutions, DPP Pryde. He argues that these incidents reveal a troubling inconsistency in the government’s application of governance principles, suggesting a possible targeting of officials who act with professionalism and independence.

Lal concluded by reaffirming the Opposition’s commitment to holding the government accountable and ensuring the integrity of constitutional offices. He stated that the sustainability of democracy in Fiji relies on leaders respecting the rule of law and operating within their defined authority. According to him, clarity and accountability are paramount for the citizens of Fiji.

This situation underscores the importance of upholding democratic principles and respecting the independence of key institutions. As discussions continue, there is hope that these concerns will lead to a renewed commitment from the government to transparency and fair governance, ultimately benefiting Fiji’s political landscape.

In summary, Ketan Lal is calling for accountability from the Prime Minister regarding potential constitutional violations linked to the recent sidelining of Dr. Nakarawa, emphasizing the need for adherence to governance principles and independent functioning of state institutions.