The Permanent Secretary for Youth and Sports has formally requested approval for Hon. Jese Saukuru to travel to New Zealand in support of the Fiji Sports Council’s Under-20 Rugby Sevens team from January 28 to February 5, 2025. This request was submitted on January 20, 2025, following an invitation from the Fiji Sports Council, and has received approval.
Notably absent from the application, however, is information regarding whether Hon. Saukuru intends to be accompanied by his spouse. While it is allowed under protocol for Ministers to include their spouses on official trips—either at their own cost or through sponsorship from the host country—these details are essential for clarity and transparency in the request process.
In light of inquiries surrounding this trip and various issues related to the Fiji Sports Council—an organization overseen by Minister Saukuru—a meeting has been arranged to facilitate further discussions among relevant stakeholders.
In relation to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), it is crucial to note that the 2013 Constitution guarantees its independence, as outlined in Section 115(6). This means that neither the Government nor any individual, including myself, can exert influence or control over the commission.
This development underscores the significance of maintaining transparency and accountability within public service, ensuring all official travel requests are explicitly detailed and comply with constitutional standards. The proactive dialogue regarding Hon. Saukuru’s travel arrangements reflects a dedication to uphold these governing principles within the administration. Such commitment to accountability is vital for fostering public trust in governmental operations and ensuring that official activities are conducted openly.