Unity Fiji has recently launched an anti-corruption campaign in Suva, aiming to tackle an issue they believe undermines societal values and integrity. Party leader Savenaca Narube described corruption as a significant threat to the country’s future, citing its role in misusing public resources, diminishing investment, and eroding governmental trust.
Narube highlighted the necessity for transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership, expressing concerns over certain Members of Parliament involved in corruption allegations who have not stepped down to facilitate proper investigations. “Even though we are not in Parliament and government, we strongly feel we must do something,” Narube stated.
He voiced disappointment over the coalition government of three political parties not addressing corruption, which he labelled the biggest threat to Fiji’s future. Narube emphasized that, although the corruption allegations need to be proven, the government has not asked any implicated individuals to resign from their positions.
To combat corruption, Unity Fiji plans to raise awareness, investigate allegations, and advocate for stronger anti-corruption laws. Narube cautioned that corruption severely hampers the government’s ability to provide essential services like water, power, roads, and social welfare. He also pointed out that corruption discourages private investment by fostering unfair competition and significantly erodes public trust and confidence in government, exacerbating inequality and widening the gap between the rich and the poor.
The party has established an anti-corruption campaign team, led by Frances Raicebe, Akuila Yabaki, and Waisea Tabakau. This team will collaborate with the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption, Fiji Police Force, and Transparency International to enhance public awareness on identifying and reporting corruption.