The Public Service Commission (PSC) has officially rescinded the nomination of Pita Wise for the role of Head of Mission in Japan. PSC chairperson Luke Rokovada announced last night that this decision was made at the discretion of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
Mr. Wise had resigned from his position as permanent secretary on September 25, stating personal reasons for his departure. Prime Minister Rabuka confirmed that his office received an allegation of sexual harassment against Mr. Wise, which has since been referred to the PSC.
Mr. Wise was expected to succeed Filimone Waqabaca, who is set to become the head of the Fiji Development Bank. Last Friday, both the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre and the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement urged the Coalition Government and Prime Minister Rabuka to withdraw Mr. Wise’s nomination for the ambassadorial post in Japan.
Mr. Wise has served as permanent secretary for the Office of the Prime Minister since January, having previously held similar positions in past administrations.