PM dodges questions on Tabuya's actions

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka evaded the question of whether any action will be taken against the Minister for Women, Lynda Tabuya, for insubordination.

Ms Tabuya had publicly made statements about reintroducing the death penalty as a deterrent for drug criminals who use Fiji as a transit point for illicit drugs-an issue that should have been discussed first by the Cabinet.

Earlier this week, Mr Rabuka told this newspaper that Ms Tabuya's actions were going to be dealt with by the Cabinet.

Ms Tabuya is notorious for defying Cabinet protocols, which has prompted calls for her termination From her ministerial portfolio.

In an interview yesterday, Mr Rabuka said he did not want to prejudge the issue.

"The issue of Lynda Tabuya has not been dealt with," he said.

"I have not been in Fiji long enough to address the issue. It was supposed to be dealt with by the Cabinet yesterday (Tuesday)."

Mr Rabuka reiterated that it was unfortunate that Ms Tabuya had given her views publicly before any discussions by the Cabinet.

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