Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga has fired back at calls from Opposition MPs to scrap the current Electoral Law Review process, labelling their comments as shallow and short-sighted.
Responding in Parliament to remarks made by FijiFirst MP Faiyaz Koya and a call from fellow Opposition MP Ketan Lal to “disband the part-time commissioners” and start afresh with individuals with “no political connections”, Mr Turaga did not hold back.
“I wish to remind honourable Lal that these suggestions are reflective of a lack of depth, wisdom, and experience,” Mr Turaga said.
“The views expressed are narrow, shallow precepts, and short-sighted perceptions of the political landscape.”
Mr Turaga defended the integrity and independence of the Fiji Law Reform Commission-led review process, saying the Coalition Government had committed to genuine service delivery and listening to the people without political interference.
“Service delivery and listening to people means non-interference” he said.
“It means allowing the process to be followed within the rule of law.”
He pointed to the broad-based and inclusive nature of the public consultations now underway across the country.
“Discussion tools are available in Hindi, iTaukei, English, and Rotuman and are accessible and inclusive, allowing everyone to participate in a user-friendly format.”
Since launching on April 7 in Suva, consultations have moved through Korovou, Vunidawa, Nasinu, Namosi, Levuka, Lovoni, Ovalau, the seven districts of Rotuma, and are currently underway in Vanua Levu and Tailevu.
“We have gone to where our people are – women, children, youths, the disadvantaged, marginalised, and of course, the vulnerable ones,” Mr Turaga said.
“The consultations have been held in open outdoor halls, civic auditoriums and school halls.”
