IT is an insult if government ministers do not accept traditional gifts presented to them when they visit villages on official duty, says Social Democratic Liberal Party general secretary Viliame Takayawa.
His comment comes in response to a submission by proposed Lion of Judah Party leader Abel Camillo to the consultations on the Code of Conduct Bill in Nadi this week.
Mr Takayawa said government ministers do not ask to be given gifts when they visit villages on government business.
“We had this discussion within the party, and since we joined the Coalition, our ministers have been advised not to accept gifts,” Mr Takayawa said.
“They’ve been advised to send word ahead to the places they plan to visit that they won’t accept gifts, that they cannot drink kava or take anything from the people. But despite that, they are still accorded welcome ceremonies and given gifts, so it is very difficult to navigate that.”
Mr Takayawa said despite trying their best to send messages ahead of their arrival, when they arrive something is prepared to welcome them.
“It would be insulting to the hosts if the ministers do not accept what is accorded to them.”
He said policies were in place within the Government on what should be done with the gifts, but for any government official to refuse gifts from villagers would be an insult to the people.
“This is not a local thing.
“Everywhere you go, on international trips, they take gifts and in turn they will be given gifts.
“It is important to understand that ministers are not the ones asking for these gifts. These are presented to them as a token of appreciation, and sometimes it is part of custom and tradition.
“They cannot disrespect that.”
