Former Prime Minister and leader of the Fiji Labour Party, Mahedra Chaudhry, has criticized Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for failing to address the escalating crime rates in Fiji. In a recent statement, Chaudhry urged Rabuka to prioritize the safety of his citizens instead of focusing on international affairs, which he described as promoting an “ocean of peace” abroad at the considerable expense of Fijian taxpayers—specifically, an estimated $3,000 per day.
Chaudhry highlighted the alarming increase in crime, stating that citizens no longer feel secure in their homes or on the streets. He pointed to a distressing incident where an individual reportedly died while in police custody in Nadi, underscoring this as a significant blow to public trust in law enforcement agencies.
Additionally, Chaudhry criticized the government for not appointing a substantive Police Commissioner for more than two years, which he believes has led to a lack of direction within the Fiji Police Force. He expressed concern that Rabuka’s frequent travels and absences from the country have detracted from his responsibilities, thereby negatively impacting governance and public safety.
The former Prime Minister also condemned Rabuka for allegedly benefiting from tax-free travel allowances accrued during his time spent abroad, suggesting that he has lost touch with the struggles faced by everyday Fijians under his administration. Furthermore, Chaudhry indicated that the current government lacks discipline and accountability, failing to address misconduct among its officials.
This commentary raises significant questions about leadership priorities in Fiji and emphasizes the urgent need for improved safety measures for citizens, alongside greater governmental accountability. The call to action for Rabuka serves as a reminder of the critical balance between international engagement and domestic responsibilities that leaders must maintain to ensure the well-being of their constituents.
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