Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has asserted that the government has not utilized the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) as a political weapon. He emphasized FICAC’s independence, stressing that he has not personally interfered in any cases handled by the commission.
Rabuka stated that when his government took office, it had a mandate to assess FICAC’s operations, with the possibility of restoring its functions to the police if deemed necessary. He firmly rejected any allegations suggesting that the institution is being weaponized against political adversaries, indicating that the Act governing FICAC should be respected until any amendments are proposed.
Echoing the importance of maintaining the rule of law, Rabuka reassured investors and international partners that the government’s respect for legal processes fosters confidence in Fiji’s economic environment. He said, “Government has not used FICAC as its weapon, nor have I personally tried to use FICAC. In fact, I have not had any dealings with FICAC,” reiterating the commission’s independence as outlined in the governing Act.
Rabuka also addressed concerns regarding recent turbulence within his Cabinet, clarifying that such internal dynamics do not necessarily signal political instability. He stressed the principle of equality under the law and urged confidence in Fiji’s legal and institutional framework, reassuring that the country remains a stable environment for business even amid recent political shifts.
These statements reflect Rabuka’s commitment to transparency and integrity within his government, contributing to an overarching narrative of hope for a more accountable political climate in Fiji. With ongoing scrutiny of FICAC and the implementation of governance reforms, there is optimism that these efforts will reinforce public trust in government institutions and promote a more robust democratic process in the nation.