More questions have surfaced over the credibility of Fiji’s choice of a diplomat or a high-level posting to Australia.

Former diplomat to the United Nations, Jone Draunimasi, questioned the decision to appoint Ajay Amrit as Fiji’s high commissioner to Australia over concerns of competencies.

He applied for the position in June, and after another follow-up last week, was he was not selected.

Mr Draunimasi lives in Australia.

“Having a permanent residency is not the issue,” Mr Draunimasi said.

Fiji set the precedence in the past on the matter of Australian citizenship, Public Service Commission chairman Luke Rokovada.

Fiji Sun made repeated calls to the Fiji High Commission to Canberra yesterday. No calls were answered.

Fiji Sun also awaits Mr Amrit’s response to questions sent earlier.

Mr Draunimasi questioned Mr Amrit’s qualifications where the Fiji diplomatic posting was concerned.

“He is the chairman for a Rotary Club; they do barbecue and stuff,” he said.

“E vakamadua (it is embarrassing),” he said from Australia.

“Experience in the field of diplomacy is a field of its own.”

Mr Amrit is a former columnist for Fiji Sun. He presented television shows, and most recently led Fijian Broadcasting Commission as chairman. He is also a co-founder of The People’s Alliance party.

Meanwhile, Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry said two wrongs did not make a right.

“They have to recognise local talents who are ready to serve; not people just lining their pockets.”

He called for more accountability and transparency in the process.

During the initial coalition talks, The People’s Alliance emphasised the need for the right people with the right qualifications for all Government appointments.

Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj