Confusion Reigns as PM Saves Face Over Radrodro's Return

Only the Prime Minister and his closest advisors were aware of the 'three months given' to Aseri Radrodro when he was dismissed as Minister for Education on January 22, 2024.

No public statements or announcements were made about a possible three months standdown or suspension period. Throughout and even up to the weeklong coalition crisis (regarding the SODELPA management board letter to Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka to help facilitate the reinstatement of Mr Radrodro),

Mr Rabuka was adamant Mr Radrodro would remain a backbencher.

He even hinted about a vote of no confidence and was ready to take the fall. But on Wednesday night while confirming the reinstatement of Mr Radrodro, Mr Rabuka said: "The three months were up on April 22nd, and it's my choice."

Senior civil servants we spoke to remain baffled like the rest of the public about Mr Rabuka’s change of tune.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. Photo: Leon Lord

Fiji Labour Party 

FLP leader Mahendra Chaudhry said Mr Rabuka was correct in refusing Mr Radrodro’s request for reinstatement when he presented his apology by way of a matanagasau.

“Insubordination and disobedience are serious offences. Is the shocking reinstatement because of SODELPA’s veiled threat following its leadership change, that unless Radrodro was reinstated its support could be withdrawn causing the collapse of the Coalition Government?” Mr Chaudhry questioned.

“The Prime Minister now says that Radrodro was removed for just three months. If that was the case, then why was it not made known at the time?

“And why did Radrodro keep asking to be reinstated? Rabuka must stop justifying his wrongs by resorting to lies and trying to fool the people.”

Fiji Council of Social Services 

FCOSS president Sepesa Rasili said without integrity, leaders and the public institutions they head often experience a trust deficit.

“While we respect that the Prime Minister may have had his reasons for the decisions he has made so far with regards to the said minister, ...the Fiji Council of Social Services reminds our Government leaders that integrity in leadership means adhering consistently to a strong set of ethical values and principles,” Mr Rasili said.

“Ideally these principles should mirror that of the society that elected representatives supposedly represent. Leaders with integrity demonstrate consistency between words and action therefore earning the trust and respect of the citizenry.”

Unions respond

FTA general secretary Paula Manumanunitoga, who had written to the Mr Rabuka to reinstate Mr Radrodro couldn’t hold back his excitement yesterday.

“Mr Radrodro paid attention to our request and submission of teachers who suffered in the last 16 years and to have him back we are excited to restart where we have left from,” Mr Manumanunitoga said.

“As for the Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka we worked with him very well when he was in the Ministry of Education.”

He revealed that one of the pending issues that remained on hold was the request for a pay rise for assistant teachers.

FTU general secretary Muniappa Goundar said Mr Radrodro’s timely return to this esteemed position was indeed a testament of his unparalleled dedication, exemplary leadership, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of education in Fiji.

“Under his astute guidance, the Ministry of Education witnessed a remarkable trajectory of progress, marked by transformative initiatives and substantial improvements in various facets of education,” Mr Goundar said.

With the National Budget sitting fast-approaching, political commentators are predicting that Mr Rabuka is being strategic and playing the numbers game. While holding SODELPA close, he has time to re-strategise and regain support for the next election.

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