Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has defended his call for updates on Commission of Inquiry (COI) files saying it is about public accountability, not interference.
Mr Seruiratu said Acting Prime Minister Filimoni Vosarogo had misrepresented both his role and his remarks, while avoiding the core issue — what happens after a taxpayer-funded Commission of Inquiry concludes.
“I spoke in my capacity as Leader of the Opposition, not as a member of any political party,” Mr Seruiratu said. He said the Constitution placed a clear responsibility on the Leader of the Opposition to ensure independent constitutional offices remained subject to scrutiny and public accountability, particularly on matters of national importance.
Mr Seruiratu stressed he had consistently respected the constitutional independence of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), but said independence did not place the office beyond transparency.
“Constitutional independence does not mean freedom from accountability.
“Independent offices exist to serve the public interest and must retain public confidence.”
He dismissed suggestions his comments were aimed at influencing prosecutions, saying he had not called for charges or outcomes of any kind.
He also pushed back against claims that calls for updates amounted to “pressure”, arguing that transparency within lawful limits strengthened confidence in public institutions.
“Prolonged silence undermines confidence,” he said, “particularly where a Commission of Inquiry examined serious allegations involving senior public office holders, including Government ministers.”
While noting that delay alone did not necessarily amount to failure, Mr Seruiratu said extended and unexplained delays in matters of national significance inevitably raised legitimate public concern.
