Siromi Turaga, the Minister for Justice, commended his political party, The People’s Alliance, for its dedication to serving the people during a recent address to the villagers of Nabuna in Cawa, Koro. He characterized the party as a significant force for change, stating that even though it is relatively young, it has achieved the transformations that people had long desired.
Turaga highlighted that the Cawa district encompasses several villages, including Cavaga, Tavua, Nabasovi, Kade, Nabuna, and Vatulele. He asserted, “The People’s Alliance is a vital party because it has brought about the changes we wanted and dreamed about, granting people the freedom that God has bestowed upon them and which is safeguarded under the 2013 Constitution.”
He emphasized the importance of listening to the people and reflected on his experiences leading up to the 2022 election. Expressing gratitude towards the Cawa district for their unwavering support, he said, “Thank you to the district of Cawa for not wavering in your decision to choose me, someone from Kubuna-i-wai who will protect Lomaiviti.”
Turaga mentioned that The People’s Alliance will hold its Annual General Meeting on the upcoming Friday. He also noted that the Minister for Agriculture is set to visit Koro next month, appreciating the attention being given to the area due to its fertile land. He encouraged local farmers to take advantage of an upcoming agriculture show designed to benefit them.
The Minister criticized the now-deregistered FijiFirst party for allegedly prioritizing its interests over those of the public. He remarked that the iTaukei community had been sidelined for 16 years, and civil servants have recognized the difference since the change in leadership.
He remarked that the Ministry of Justice staff, who previously had limited outreach, have now visited several provinces, stating, “We are focusing on the people, which is why we are bringing services directly to them.”
Turaga also reported on ongoing investigations into the actions of the previous government, including the referral of 70 cases concerning fund misuse from the Housing Authority to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), with only one case having reached the courts.
Additionally, Turaga and other ministers are currently under investigation by FICAC, following the resignation of former acting commissioner Francis Pulewai. Barbara Malimali has now assumed the role and indicated a fresh start for the commission.