Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has addressed mounting criticism of his administration, defending the Government’s handling of ongoing controversies and insisting his leadership remains committed to “putting out fires” — old and new.
His comments follow a Letter to the Editor by Nadi resident Rakesh Chand Sharma, who accused some of Mr Rabuka’s appointees of fuelling instability and likened one official’s conduct to a man dancing while the village burns.
Responding through his weekly column “A Conversation with the PM”, the Prime Minister acknowledged the challenges but stressed that not all problems began on his watch, pointing to unresolved issues inherited from the previous government.
Mr Rabuka said underperforming appointees would be held accountable, declaring that no one is above scrutiny.
“The conduct of acting FCS Commissioner reminds me of the Hindi expression; ‘mast Sham masti mein, aag lage basti mein’ – jolly fellow Sham continuously enjoys himself while the settlement burns,” Mr Sharma wrote.
“I believe PM Rabuka will spend the rest of his term putting out fires started by his own appointees in his own administration.”
However, the Prime Minister said the situation was more complex than it appeared.
“I thank Mr Rakesh Chand Sharma for his observation, but promise him and other like-minded observers that as we continue the firefight, there will be embers around that can start new fires. We will never give up!” Mr Rabuka said in his response on ‘A Conversation with the PM’ column.
He pushed back against the claim that his own appointees were solely to blame.
“The allegation that the fires have been started by our own appointees is not totally correct, as some of the embers had been left there, and not put out by those who started the previous fires, and were ignited during our term!” Mr Rabuka said.
“All appointees applied and are supported by those who know them, however, those who are finally chosen are considered in accordance with the proper procedures and processes.”
When asked about concerns that some of his appointees were eroding public trust in government, Mr Rabuka insisted the leadership was taking action.
“When these are brought to our attention, we correct the situation, sometimes by even terminating the appointments of errant appointees. Some have, and must be removed. No one is indispensable,” he said.
Mr Rabuka’s comments come amid growing scrutiny over the conduct of several high-level officials, and calls for more transparency and accountability in the appointment and oversight of public service leadership.
