ACTING Fiji Corrections Service commissioner Sevuloni Naucukidi says the barrage of personal attacks on social media has taken a heavy toll – not just on him, but on his entire family and staff.
In an exclusive interview with The Fiji Times, he said that in an earlier audience he had already informed the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC) that he would be willing to step aside if it meant progress for the FCS.
“I’ve reached a point where I’ve asked myself if this job is worth all the flak I’m receiving,” Mr Naucukidi said.
“But then I think about everyone who depends on me – my staff, their families, and the institution and the Government of the day – and I keep going.
“It’s not easy for them to read what’s being said. I also feel for my staff and the whole organisation who are being dragged into this too.”
He urged the public to be cautious about unverified claims online.
“I just hope the public will learn to distinguish between fact and rumour. The truth will see the light of day.
“The allegations are with police now and so please respect the rule of law.
“We are also conducting all our internal investigations also with police to tackle the issue of these rumours spread on social media.”
Responding to speculation about his future, Mr Naucukidi said he never applied for the top job, and was prepared to step aside if doing so would serve the best interests of the service.
“I have everything I need; I answered the call of duty because of my passion for this job.
“I do not seek power and fame; I put my hands up because I was answering the call of duty. I was appointed and I never applied for it.”
Despite the challenges, Mr Naucukidi remains focused on restoring trust and strengthening the institution from within.
