Opposition Member of Parliament Jone Usamate has voiced significant concerns regarding accountability following a recent High Court ruling, which determined that the dismissal of Barbara Malimali was unlawful. Usamate is questioning why Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has not been subjected to an investigation in light of this ruling.
In a statement released yesterday, Usamate articulated that Prime Minister Rabuka has effectively placed himself in a legally precarious situation akin to that of former Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama, who faced disqualification from Parliament in the past. Usamate emphasized that this issue goes beyond legal interpretations from lawyers in New Zealand, labeling it as a “documented breach of the Crimes Act” and highlighting a failure to comply with the standards outlined in the delayed Code of Conduct.
Referencing Section 139 of the Crimes Act, which addresses abuse of office, Usamate pointed out that the High Court has confirmed that Malimali’s removal was void and exceeded the Prime Minister’s authority. He remarked, “The High Court has already done the heavy lifting for the prosecutors,” implying that the groundwork has been established for potential legal action against Rabuka.
Moreover, Usamate focused on Rabuka’s public admission regarding his unilateral decision-making process. The Prime Minister’s statement, “This one I made on my own,” has been interpreted by Usamate as an acknowledgment that could carry legal repercussions. He stressed that good intentions cannot justify unlawful actions, advocating for equal accountability under the law.
“Why then is the Prime Minister not being investigated and prosecuted on this matter? Why are leaders treated differently? Why is the will of the people not being prioritized?” Usamate questioned, calling for increased accountability and transparency in governmental practices.
This mounting scrutiny of the Prime Minister’s decisions and actions may foster a more equitable legal framework in the future, reflecting the public’s demand for transparency and accountability among their leaders. This situation serves as a critical moment for governance in the region, with citizens increasingly advocating for adherence to lawful conduct by those in power.