Attorney-Genaral Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum attacked the National Federation Party for not condemning a “highly offensive” and “racist” online article by The People’s Alliance member.
At a press conference on Sunday, he said PA leader Sitiveni Rabuka’s new partner NFP leader Professor Biman Prasad’s silence on the issue was “deafening”.
“Absolutely not a word from Honourable Biman Prasad nor Honourable Pio Tikoduadua nor Honourable Qereqeretabua nor any of the stalwarts of NFP,” Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said.
“They all have their lips sealed. Why? “Because that article as offensive as racist as it is, enormous philosophical issues about running a modern nation-state and how one should run it – not a word or a peep from them.
“So the voters of Fiji must realise that these people have formed this partnerships not based on principles and values, not building nationhood, not economic advancement and growth – simply for raw political gain of office.
In response, Prof Prasad said the A-G’s attack “over so-called ‘racist’ statements is hollow”.
“Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum is desperate,” he said.
“He is trying to run away from the real problems of Fiji’s people. He wants to talk about something else.
“Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum does not want to talk about the cost of living, increasing poverty and our declining health services.
“He does not want to talk about the climate of fear and dictatorship his government has created.
“So instead he tries to make up exaggerated stories of racism.
“He will continue to do this as he gets more desperate and the election comes nearer.
“All Fiji’s citizens, no matter their race and cultural background, are equal citizens of Fiji. “NFP has fought for and honoured that principle for nearly 60 years. “Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum is nothing compared to NFP.”
