PM summons Saukuru over NZ trip questions

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has summoned Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru to a one-on-one meeting following questions over an overseas trip linked to the Fiji Sports Council.

In a statement, Mr Rabuka confirmed that a request was submitted on January 20, 2025, by the Permanent Secretary for Youth and Sports seeking approval for Mr Saukuru to travel to New Zealand from January 28 to February 5 to accompany the Fiji Sports Council’s Under-20 Rugby Sevens team.

The request, which followed an invitation from the Fiji Sports Council, was approved.

However, the Prime Minister said the application made no reference to Mr Saukuru’s spouse accompanying him on the trip.

“While Ministers may be accompanied by their spouse on official travel — either at the Minister’s own cost or where sponsored by a host country — such arrangements must be clearly stated in the original submission,” Mr Rabuka said.

He said this information should have formed part of the request and is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Mr Rabuka said he had summoned the Minister in light of questions raised about the trip and other matters relating to the Fiji Sports Council, which falls under Mr Saukuru’s portfolio.

The Prime Minister also addressed speculation involving the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption, saying the 2013 Constitution was clear on its independence.

“Under Section 115(6), FICAC is an independent body, and neither I nor the Government has the authority to direct or control it,” he said.