Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has indicated that he may contemplate stepping down if the government’s appeal against a recent High Court decision does not succeed. When questioned by The Fiji Times about the potential implications of the ruling—which he described as a setback for the government—Rabuka openly stated that resignation is a possibility he is considering, saying, “I will consider it. I am considering it.”
In a candid response, the Prime Minister affirmed that the option of resignation is very real, asserting, “Yes. That is an option.” He took personal responsibility for the controversial advice at the heart of the legal case, distancing others in his administration from any blame. Rabuka acknowledged, “If the appeal process failed, I must admit that I made the wrong decision or gave the wrong advice. Nobody else gave that advice. I made it.”
Furthermore, Rabuka defended his choice to challenge the High Court’s ruling regarding the dismissal of former FICAC commissioner Barbara Malimali, emphasizing that he is exercising his constitutional rights as a citizen despite criticism surrounding the financial implications of pursuing further legal action. He stated, “We are all subject to the law,” and reiterated his intention to utilize the legal avenues available to him, ultimately seeking a determination from the Supreme Court.
Addressing concerns about the validity of the legal advice his government is receiving as the nation approaches an election, Rabuka noted that he took full ownership of the decision in question, having sought to verify his stance with the Attorney-General. He added that certain circumstances had hindered access to comprehensive legal guidance at that time, prompting him to rely on the Constitution directly.
Rabuka specifically pointed to sections 81 and 82 of the Constitution to justify his advisory role to the President, reinforcing his commitment to uphold legal standards within the government framework. As the political landscape evolves, his candid reflections convey a mixture of accountability and confidence in navigating the complexities of governance while adhering to constitutional principles.
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