Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has confirmed he is seriously reconsidering the Coalition Agreement following what he describes as “disturbing” behaviour from the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) leadership.
In response to questions from this newspaper, Mr Rabuka said while no formal steps had been taken to break the coalition, recent developments had forced his hand.
“Recent complaints, which are being investigated by the chairman of the Public Service Commission, from civil servants in the Ministry of Education have forced me to relook at the Coalition Agreement,” he said.
“The very recent ‘broadside’ attack on Deputy Prime Minister Kamikamica and his trade mission to Tonga is also very disturbing.”
SODELPA’s general secretary Viliame Takayawa criticised the government delegation to Tonga this week, accusing them of “partying” and failing to meet the Fijian diaspora on time.
Mr Rabuka said he was unconcerned about whether the remarks were politically motivated.
“I do not care whether it is politically motivated or not, the criticisms have been made.”
He confirmed he had not spoken to SODELPA leader Aseri Radrodro or Mr Takayawa since the comments, “nor do I intend to”, he added. Pressed on whether a split would impact government stability, Mr Rabuka was resolute: “Those remaining will still be in a majority.”
He ruled out forming a new coalition, stating bluntly, “No, there will be no need to.”
On the broader coalition dynamic, the Prime Minister admitted: “We have been managing, but we need to do better for the remaining time in Parliament.”
Asked whether his frustration lies with SODELPA’s leadership or its caucus, Mr Rabuka was clear: “The party.”
Still, he left the door ajar for a resolution — albeit a grim one.
“We can repair and continue to limp along, or we sever the problem and run freer with the rest.”
