Opposition Member of Parliament Premila Kumar has voiced her strong criticism of the government, particularly targeting Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s approach to decision-making concerning the Fiji National University (FNU). This situation arose when FNU was transferred to the Office of the Prime Minister but soon faced a reversal, returning to the Ministry of Education.
Kumar’s comments point to a growing perception of indecisiveness within the upper echelons of government. She remarked, “This is not a mere administrative adjustment,” highlighting the implications of such actions on the overall direction of leadership. Her concerns center around the governance style adopted by Rabuka, emphasizing the troubling inconsistency in handling a critical institution like FNU.
The MP criticized the method by which the transfer was executed, deeming it impulsive and marked by a lack of rationale. “If the Prime Minister himself cannot stand by his own decisions, on what basis can he demand discipline from his Cabinet or accountability from public servants?” Kumar asked, reflecting deep concerns that such erratic decision-making diminishes public trust and confidence in leadership.
Furthermore, she asserted that FNU should not be utilized as a political tool, lamenting the perception that it is treated like “a political football to be kicked from one ministry to another at the whim of the Prime Minister’s mood.” This raises significant questions about the authority and stability expected from the Office of the Prime Minister. Kumar cautioned that frequent reversals of significant decisions contribute to an impression of weak leadership and uncertainty.
Her statements resonate with ongoing discussions around governance and indicate a call for a more stable and principled leadership approach. As the public observes these developments, there is a pressing need for the government to restore confidence through consistent and decisive actions.