In a fierce denunciation of the Coalition Government, Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu has branded the administration as “a government of chaos” as January draws to a close. In a robust statement, Seruiratu expressed concerns that significant decisions and policy directions initiated by the Prime Minister have spiraled into confusion, controversy, and legal disputes, ultimately costing taxpayers substantially.
Seruiratu argued that the government has become its own worst adversary, attributing this chaos to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s apparent ignorance of the detrimental effects stemming from ongoing leadership failures. He pointed out that processes emerging from the Prime Minister’s Office frequently end in administrative and political turmoil, illustrating a concerning trend.
Key to Seruiratu’s criticisms was the so-called “legal disaster” surrounding the Commission of Inquiry (COI), which he claimed has already cost taxpayers millions in legal fees. He stated that decisive leadership could have avoided such ramifications, particularly concerning the Prime Minister’s inaction on the COI’s recommendations. This includes the suggestion to suspend the Chief Justice, a move that has instead led to the Judicial Services Commission—headed by the Chief Justice—challenging the COI’s findings in court.
Seruiratu echoed concerns regarding the government’s approach to resolving the ongoing dispute, suggesting it undermines both the integrity and independence of the COI and its chair, Justice Ashton-Lewis. He cautioned that such actions risk sending a troubling message that accountability may be compromised or dismissed altogether.
In addition, Seruiratu highlighted a potential conflict of interest involving the Solicitor-General, who appeared in the COI report while reportedly representing the State in discussions related to settlements. He criticized these actions as further evidence of a government grappling with instability.
The Opposition Leader also noted that repeated Cabinet reshuffles demonstrated the government’s destabilized state. He claimed that ministers are repositioned for political survival rather than effective governance, leading to disjointed management without continuity or accountability.
As nearly four years of governance continue, Seruiratu warns that the ongoing indecision and instability are eroding public confidence and impacting national governance. His remarks signal a rallying call for a return to a more grounded and accountable leadership to restore trust in the administration.