Lynda Tabuya, the recently ousted Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, is set to learn her future within the People’s Alliance (PA) party in the next 21 days. This announcement follows a meeting of the party’s executive committee at their headquarters in Suva, where they formalized her upcoming disciplinary hearing.

Tabuya is facing her second disciplinary review after previously being brought before the committee in February over allegations related to a sex and drug scandal involving another minister. This incident led to her removal as the party’s deputy leader. Shortly after the scandal broke, the PA released a statement indicating the gravity of the situation, stating it caused “potentially irreparable damage” to the party’s reputation.

The latest challenge for Tabuya arises from a leaked explicit video that emerged on Christmas Eve, which she confirmed was genuine. She stated that the video was originally intended for her ex-husband, Robert Semaan, whom she divorced in 2016, according to an investigation by FICAC. Following the video’s release, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka dismissed her from her ministerial position on December 26. Rabuka participated in the executive committee meeting virtually while in Savusavu.

The PA’s general secretary, Sila Balawa, has confirmed that the disciplinary process will adhere to the party’s constitution, aiming to maintain its integrity and privacy throughout the proceedings. The disciplinary committee will have a 21-day timeframe to complete their review and present their findings. Tabuya will be permitted to defend herself during this process, as Balawa emphasized the importance of hearing all sides to ensure a fair outcome. The identities of the current committee members remain undisclosed, though the previous committee included various notable party figures.

This situation presents a significant moment for the People’s Alliance party as they navigate internal challenges. It underlines the importance of upholding ethical standards within political leadership and demonstrates the party’s commitment to addressing allegations seriously.

As this disciplinary process unfolds, there is hope for a resolution that not only seeks justice for the individuals involved but also aims to restore public confidence in the party’s integrity and governance.