All Government Members of Parliament who voluntarily underwent drug testing during the May sitting of Parliament have returned negative results, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced today.
A total of 38 of the Government’s 40 MPs, including Cabinet Ministers and Assistant Ministers, participated in the voluntary testing exercise conducted by the Fiji Police Force medical team.
“The facts speak for themselves. Every Government MP tested has returned a negative result,” Rabuka said.
The Prime Minister thanked the Fiji Police Force and its medical personnel for conducting the testing exercise.
“I thank the Fiji Police Force medical staff for their assistance and professionalism. This exercise demonstrates our Government’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and leadership in the fight against illicit drugs,” he said.
Rabuka said the two Government MPs who did not participate were away on official duties and other commitments during the testing period and would undergo testing next week.
“The remaining two Government MPs were away on official duties and other commitments during the testing period and will undertake their drug tests in the coming week,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the initiative was designed to demonstrate leadership in the national fight against drugs.
“Leadership begins at the top. If we expect our citizens, communities, and young people to stand against drugs, then those of us entrusted with public office must be prepared to lead by example.”
He said the testing exercise sent a clear message that illicit drug use had no place within Government ranks.
“The voluntary testing initiative reflects the Government’s determination to support the national fight against drugs and sends a clear message that there is no place for illicit drug use within the ranks of Government.”
Rabuka also used the announcement to dismiss claims and speculation that have circulated in recent months regarding Government leaders.
“The results decisively put to rest the unfounded allegations, rumours, and disinformation that have circulated in recent months, seeking to mislead the public, damage reputations, and malign Government leaders,” he said.
“Too often, disinformation and malicious speculation are spread without evidence in an attempt to undermine public confidence in institutions and individuals.”
The Prime Minister said the Government remained focused on addressing the country’s drug problem through enforcement, prevention and rehabilitation efforts.
“Our fight is not against each other. Our fight is against the drugs that are destroying lives, families, and communities,” he said.
“We will continue to support strong enforcement, prevention, rehabilitation, and public awareness efforts as part of a united national response.”
Rabuka said the Government remained committed to transparency, accountability and setting high standards for public office holders.
