Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has taken the initiative to inform President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere about an impending investigation by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) that concerns him. The two leaders held a significant 10-minute meeting last month while Rabuka was in New Zealand for an official visit and Fiji Day celebrations.
Rabuka stated that the meeting, which occurred during a stopover from Niue, was conducted on official matters. He emphasized that he merely presented the facts surrounding the investigation, leaving it up to the President to decide whether or not to pursue a second term as the Prime Minister’s nominee for the presidency.
“I pointed out the facts that were brought to my attention, which could’ve been subjected to criminal investigations, which would have been embarrassing,” Rabuka explained. He expressed his concern regarding the implications of ongoing investigations into a high-ranking official, noting that it would be inappropriate for a high chief to face potential criminal scrutiny while serving in such a prestigious position.
When pressed about whether he would bring the matter directly to FICAC, the Prime Minister clarified that it was not his responsibility to make such referrals. Currently, the exact nature of the investigations remains unclear following FICAC’s earlier clearance of the outgoing President, who had been scrutinized by the Financial Intelligence Unit.
This situation highlights the critical intersection between governance and accountability in Fiji. Rabuka’s transparency with the President reflects a commitment to ethical leadership and ensures that any potential controversies are handled proactively.
Overall, while the circumstances surrounding the investigations are serious, they underline the importance of accountability and integrity within governmental ranks, fostering hope for a more transparent political climate in Fiji.
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