Pita Wise, the former permanent secretary for the Office of the Prime Minister, is no longer under consideration for the position of Japanese Ambassador. This information was confirmed by Public Service Commission chairman Luke Rokovada last night. Rokovada stated, “The government has decided to withdraw its consideration of Mr. Wise,” and added that they are now reviewing other candidates.
The decision to nominate Wise for the ambassadorial role had faced significant criticism following Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s announcement. Earlier this month, Wise had voluntarily resigned from the Prime Minister’s office after a complaint was filed against him with Rabuka.
Additionally, Rokovada announced that Education permanent secretary Selina Kuruleca will be transitioning to the Ministry of Justice, with her official start as permanent secretary for Justice scheduled for next Monday. Meli Nacuva, the current permanent secretary for Youth and Sports, will take over Kuruleca’s former position.