Step Down: Narube Tells MPs Referred to FICAC

Unity Fiji Party leader Savenaca Narube is calling on Members of Parliament (MPs) whose names were referred to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) to step down and let the law take its course.

On Friday, Mr Narube launched the party’s anti-corruption campaign.

Nine MPs were referred to FICAC by the Fijian Elections Office for complaints lodged against them since last year.

The MPs referred to FICAC include:

• Minister for Sugar and Multi-Ethnic Affairs Charan Jeath Singh - Referred to FICAC on October 31, 2023
• Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Biman Prasad - Referred to FICAC on April 5, 2024
• Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya - Referred to FICAC on April 5, 2024
• Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica - Referred to FICAC on April 5, 2024
• Former Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga - Referred to FICAC on April 5, 2024
• Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifereimi Vasu - Referred to FICAC on May 14, 2024
• Opposition Member Semi Koroilavesau - Referred to FICAC on May 14, 2024
• Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro - Referred to FICAC on May 14, 2024
• Opposition Member Faiyaz Siddiq Koya - Referred to FICAC on May 14, 2024.

Mr Narube emphasised the serious impact of corruption.

“It can single-handedly destroy the future of a company. Its tentacles can reach deep into Government, vanua, and communities,” Mr Narube said.

“Unity Fiji has watched with concern the explosion in corruption in Fiji, which we believe started to increase in the early years of the FijiFirst party dictatorship.

“Now with a Coalition Government of three political parties, we are disappointed that they have not addressed this significant threat to our future, especially given the numerous allegations of corruption against coalition members.”

He stressed the importance of the coalition Government’s leadership acting responsibly.

“As we’ve seen in some countries, systemic corruption can become an accepted way of life. Fiji is dangerously close to that tipping point,” Mr Narube said.

“Government has not requested anyone to step down. I think they should. It doesn’t imply guilt because these are allegations that need to be proven, but it is a matter of principle and goodwill perhaps.”

The party views this situation as a serious breakdown of values, integrity, and ethics, he said.

“If you support transparency and anti-corruption principles, allow these investigations to proceed. If found not guilty, they can return with full pay.”

When asked about Mr Narube’s suggestion, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka replied, “FICAC hasn’t informed me about it.”

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