Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has stated that he is prepared to intervene in the investigation concerning the alleged unauthorized issuance of Fijian passports if the Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, chooses to step aside. These passports are reportedly linked to children of individuals associated with the Grace Road Group, which has faced human rights allegations.
Mr. Tikoduadua indicated that the issuance of these passports took place without his knowledge, as well as without approval from the permanent secretary or senior management at the Department of Immigration. He has expressed a willingness to temporarily step back from his position if advised to do so by the Prime Minister. Mr. Rabuka has confirmed he received an email regarding the situation but intends to discuss it with Mr. Tikoduadua directly before making any decisions.
The two officials are scheduled to meet on Monday to further address the matter. In the meantime, Amelia Komaisavai, the director of Immigration, has been placed on leave following the ongoing investigations. Mason Smith, the Permanent Secretary for Immigration, issued this directive as part of the inquiry.
In a related issue, the Grace Road Group has responded to the allegations, characterizing them as “sensationalised false information.” They emphasized that children born in Fiji are entitled to citizenship under the Citizenship of Fiji Act 2009, which does not require ministerial authorization. The Group claims the controversy has arisen from political targeting and misinterpretation of the law.
Additionally, the Ministry of Employment has discovered breaches of the Employment Relations Act 2007 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1996 during inspections of Grace Road’s operations. Minister Agni Deo Singh has promised further investigations, asserting that compliance with Fijian employment laws is essential, and reminding that these laws apply to both local and migrant workers. Grace Road has been urged to rectify the identified breaches to ensure that all employees receive their rightful entitlements.
This situation highlights the importance of accountability and transparency within governmental processes, particularly in matters relating to immigration and employment rights. As investigations continue, the hope remains that clarity will be achieved, leading to an environment where both justice and adherence to the law are paramount for the betterment of society.
Summary: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is prepared to intervene in the investigation into unauthorized Fijian passports linked to the Grace Road Group. Minister Pio Tikoduadua may step aside to facilitate this inquiry. Grace Road denied wrongdoing, asserting legal rights regarding citizenship. Concurrently, breaches of employment laws at Grace Road are being investigated, underscoring the need for compliance in the workplace.
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