Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has acknowledged that he has yet to obtain a full explanation from Justice Minister Siromi Turaga concerning the recent suspension of Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa. This suspension has drawn scrutiny, with some viewing it as a possible abuse of authority by Turaga.
Rabuka stated that Dr. Nakarawa has returned to his position after Turaga previously announced he was being placed on leave due to alleged breaches and complaints. The Justice Minister mentioned that serious incidents had been reported regarding the management of the Fiji Corrections Service, which warranted immediate investigation and raised concerns about governance, conduct, and security within the organization. However, Rabuka pointed out that Turaga proceeded with the suspension without his prior knowledge.
When pressed about perceived discrepancies in the treatment of former Minister for Women and Children Lynda Tabuya compared to Turaga’s recent actions, Rabuka chose not to comment but affirmed he is seeking clarity from Turaga on this issue. Despite the absence of complaints against Turaga, the Prime Minister indicated he is not inclined to penalize him for what he deems a constitutional misstep.
Former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum weighed in on the situation, criticizing Turaga’s announcement as legally flawed. He referenced Section 130(4) of the Constitution, which stipulates that the Commissioner is appointed by the President, based on advice from the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC). Sayed-Khaiyum emphasized that any disciplinary actions concerning the Commissioner should fall under presidential authority, not the minister’s.
He contended that using the Fiji Corrections Service Act for disciplinary purposes involving a constitutionally appointed official is inappropriate and undermines the due process guaranteed by the Constitution. Echoing these concerns, Opposition MP Ketan Lal expressed that the lack of transparency surrounding Dr. Nakarawa’s forced leave potentially diminishes public trust in governmental institutions.
As this situation unfolds, it presents an essential opportunity for the Fijian government to reinforce its commitment to constitutional integrity and public accountability. The Prime Minister and his Cabinet have the chance to restore trust through transparency and proper legal procedures, thereby enhancing the governance framework in Fiji.
In summary, while the challenges posed by this incident are significant, there remains a hopeful perspective that such public discourse could lead to valuable reforms and greater adherence to democratic principles moving forward.
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