Social Democratic Liberal Party Member of Parliament Mosese Bulitavu stands by his decision to vote in support of a Government motion in Parliament last week. His decision was a patriotic one, he said.

Mr Bulitavu has come under scrutiny by SODELPA after he stood against fellow party members who strongly opposed the motion to amend the $455 million loan guarantee period for Fiji Airways.

It is understood that the party had given him until 7pm yesterday to provide an explanation.

Best interest of Fiji

Speaking from his home in Labasa yesterday, he said his decision was made based on his views as a national leader for the best interest of Fiji, its people and the Fijian economy.

“It was my own decision because I think Fiji needs to protect its airline industry by laying the foundation. We need Fiji Airways for a quick recovery,” Mr Bulitavu said.

“When the borders reopen the tourism industry will be revived, employment will be created in the airline industry and other sectors will also benefit from the reopening of the borders.

“That is the decision I made looking into the future on what should happen and what we should prepare for.”

According to him there was no caucus meeting held or instructions given on the stand that they should take. After weighing out his options, he said he took the stand of patriotism.

“I have to be a patriotic Fijian and have that feeling of love for my country,” he said.

“There was no meeting. Probably there were instructions but there was no Caucus meeting because Parliament was virtual and some were there and some were here. I’m in Labasa, whether they had a meeting, forum or quorum there (Suva) I don’t know.

“If they suspend me I have other things to do. I have a farm and a business.”

Duru responds

SODELPA general secretary Lenaitasi Duru said while the party respects Mr Bulitavu’s rights and responsibilities, he is in Parliament under the SODELPA ticket.

“We respect his views, but we will uphold party rules,” Mr Duru said.

“With rights comes responsibilities. You cannot express your rights without knowing that there are some consequences to the decisions that we will take.

“I hope he has evaluated everything he stood for; we respect his rights but he is not in Parliament as an independent candidate.”

Mr Duru said they wanted to establish whether there was any directive agreed on by Caucus to vote against the motion.

“If the directive had been given and he went against it then that is an issue according to our constitution,” he said.

“We are looking at people who are team players going forward.

“His opinion is his but when it comes to national issues, and as he votes with the other side of the house it does not really go well with the party and his future too in the party.”

Party Leader Viliame Gavoka said they would release a statement on the issue today.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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