PRIME Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has dismissed Youth and Sports Minister Jese Saukuru and directed the Fiji Sports Council to immediately suspend its chief executive officer Ratu Gilbert Vakalalabure as investigations begin into allegations of abuse of office and misuse of funds.
In a statement released yesterday, Mr Rabuka said the decision was taken to allow authorities to conduct an independent investigation.
“In light of the seriousness of the allegations raised, and to ensure that due process is respected and that the relevant authorities are able to carry out their work without interference, I have dismissed Honourable Jese Saukuru from his position as Minister for Youth and Sports, effective immediately,” Mr Rabuka said.
“This decision allows the Fiji Police Force to conduct a thorough investigation into allegations of abuse of office relating to the Fiji Sports Council.”
He said the Government took allegations involving public office seriously.
“The Government takes any allegations concerning the misuse of public office or public resources very seriously.
“I have also directed the Board of the Fiji Sports Council to immediately suspend its chief executive officer, Ratu Gilbert Vakalalabure, to allow the independent investigation into allegations of misuse of funds to proceed without hindrance.”
Mr Rabuka said Government expected all public office holders to maintain high standards of conduct.
“The integrity of public office and the proper management of public resources are fundamental principles that this Government expects all public office holders to uphold at all times.”
Mr Rabuka has since assumed the Youth and Sports portfolio to ensure the ministry’s operations continue without disruption.
