Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says he “stands for the truth” as Government moves to review the law governing the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption, insisting any amendments will follow strict constitutional process.
He stressed there would be no shortcuts and no political interference, particularly amid questions surrounding the arrest of former journalist Charlie Charters.
“There will be no interference from my end,” he said.
The High Court recently ruled that any disciplinary or removal processes concerning the FICAC Commissioner rested with the Judicial Services Commission, in accordance with constitutionally prescribed procedures.
On Fiji’s lack of a standalone whistleblower protection law, Mr Rabuka said any future framework must be built on credibility and facts.
“It depends on whether the whistleblower is genuine, and the facts they raise are factual.”
“I stand for the truth being told, and if you stand by something you believe to be the truth, you have to defend your statement.”
Speaking to the media yesterday, Mr Rabuka confirmed Cabinet was looking at legislative changes to the 2018 FICAC Act.
“We will bring it into the house.
“It would have to be legislatively amended, but amending its reference in the Constitution will need a referendum, and the constitutional provisions for amending.”
