PM terminates Youth and Sports Minister Jese Saukuru

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has dismissed Jese Saukuru from his position as Minister for Youth and Sports, effective immediately, following allegations of abuse of office relating to the Fiji Sports Council.

In a statement, Mr Rabuka said the decision was made to ensure due process and allow authorities to carry out investigations without interference.

“The integrity of public office and the proper management of public resources are fundamental principles that this Government expects all public office holders to uphold at all times,” he said.

“Those entrusted with positions of leadership must carry out their responsibilities with transparency, accountability, and in the best interests of the people of Fiji.”

Mr Rabuka said the dismissal would allow the Fiji Police Force to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations.

“This step has been taken in the interest of transparency and accountability, and to ensure that the investigative process proceeds independently and without undue influence.”

Mr Rabuka said the Government took allegations of misuse of public office or public resources seriously.

“It is important that the appropriate investigative and legal processes are allowed to proceed so that the facts can be fully established and the necessary actions taken based on the findings.”

Mr Rabuka said he had assumed the portfolios of Youth and Sports, while Assistant Minister for Youth and Sports Aliki Bia would continue supporting the ministry’s day-to-day operations.

He said this would ensure programmes and services continued without disruption, particularly those supporting youth development and the growth of sports across the country.

Mr Rabuka also directed the board of the Fiji Sports Council to immediately suspend its chief executive officer, Ratu Gilbert Vakalalabure.

“I have also directed the Board of the Fiji Sports Council to immediately suspend its Chief Executive Officer, Ratu Gilbert Vakalalabure, to allow the independent investigation into allegations of misuse of funds to proceed without hindrance,” he said.

Mr Rabuka said the Government would allow the investigation to take its full course.

“The Government will allow the investigation to take its full course, and decisions regarding future appointments or any further action will be made once the investigation process is completed,” he said.

He said the Government remained committed to transparency, accountability and the rule of law.