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The Soko Death: Now, Police Commissioner says they are waiting for Latuoka Hospital to release Soko's medical report - Fijileaks released it months ago!

23/10/2014

Fiji's Police will meet with the Director Public Prosecution today to discuss outstanding issues with respect to the case of Vilikesa Soko who died in police custody. Police Commissioner Ben Groenewald says among outstanding issues to be discussed is the release of Soko's medical report. "I can confirm that one outstanding issue remains and that is the release of Soko’s medical report from the Lautoka Hospital which is being done with the assistance of the Solicitor General’s office," Groenewald said. Source: Fijilive.

http://www.fijileaks.com/home/police-baton-and-robbery-suspect-vilikesa-sokos-death-rear-admiral-bainimaramas-police-caused-sokos-death-by-shoving-their-police-bation-up-the-deceaseds-rear-causing-massive-internal-bleeding

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WATERGATE TO WHITEWASH JOURNALISM IN FIJI: As Fijian journalism sinks to its lowest ebb, we SALUTE BEN BRADLEE of Washington Post who died aged 93, the 'Great Editor'

22/10/2014

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Barack Obama awarded Bradlee with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013; in Fiji, in 2008, the interim Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama and his soldiers kidnapped the former Fiji Sun publisher Russell Hunter from his home and deported him out of the country, and slapped banning order against Victor Lal from entering his country of birth. Crime: For exposing Mahendra Chaudhry's secret millions.

BEN Bradlee, the editor of the Washington Post during the Watergate scandal that toppled President Richard Nixon, has died aged 93. The newspaper reports he died at his Washington home of natural causes. As executive editor from 1968-1991, Bradlee was credited for transforming the Post into one of the most respected newspapers in America. In 2013, he was given the country's highest civilian honour - the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

"For Benjamin Bradlee, journalism was more than a profession - it was a public good vital to our democracy," President Barack Obama said in a statement released by the White House on Tuesday evening. A true newspaperman, he transformed the Washington Post into one of the country's finest newspapers, and with him at the helm, a growing army of reporters published the Pentagon Papers, exposed Watergate, and told stories that needed to be told."

"Ben Bradlee was the best American newspaper editor of his time and had the greatest impact on his newspaper of any modern editor," said Donald Graham, the former publisher of the Washington Post.

'Aggressive reporting' Bradlee played a key role in pursuing what became known as the Watergate scandal, which eventually toppled President Richard Nixon in 1974.

The scandal began when five men were caught trying to break into the offices of the Democratic National Committee in the Watergate complex in Washington, on 17 June 1972.

The intruders were adjusting bugging equipment and photographing documents. Bradlee encouraged two journalists - Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein - to pursue relentlessly the unfolding story. When secret tape recordings of Nixon's complicity in covering up the scandal came to light, the president was left with no choice but to resign. The story of the newspaper's coverage of the Watergate scandal was later portrayed in the film All The President's Men.

Bradlee - who fought in the Navy during World War Two - became a reporter in the 1950s. He soon became close friends with the then senator and future President John F Kennedy. Bradlee became managing editor at the Washington Post in 1965 and was promoted to executive editor three years later.

"From the moment he took over The Post newsroom in 1965, Mr Bradlee sought to create an important newspaper that would go far beyond the traditional model of a metropolitan daily," the newspaper wrote in its obituary.

"He achieved that goal by combining compelling news stories based on aggressive reporting with engaging feature pieces of a kind previously associated with the best magazines." In 1971, Bradlee decided to publish the so-called Pentagon Papers - a secret study of the Vietnam War broken by The New York Times. Bradlee acted against the advice of lawyers and the entreaties of top government officials. A legal battle then began, with the Supreme Court later upholding the right of newspapers to print the leaked papers.

Fijileaks Editor: "Dear Journalism Students at USP and Fiji National University. Russell Hunter and Victor Lal are honoured to have been bombarded with e-mails to speak to you on the art of investigative journalism in Fiji. Since Hunter and Lal are banned from Fiji ('Rama's banishment') following their revelation of Frank Bainimarama's then Finance Minister Mahendra Chaudhry's secret $2million, we have decided that the best way the two could reach you all (for they don't want you or your lecturers to be taken to the army camp and made to do the 'exercises') is to wait for their story which will be serialized in the Fijileaks and titled HARYANAGATE - In Search of Mahendra Chaudhry's Secret Millions: The Inside Story.

When Facts get lost in transmission

An Opinion By: Mick Beddoes

The two analysis of Nemani Delaibatiki [Fiji Sun Oct 17 & Oct 20] contain far too many untruths that it is necessary for me to state the facts to ensure the people get the truth.

Principal Administrative Officer & Other positions

The Party Leader asked me to take charge of the Opposition office in Parliament soon after the final results were announced on September 23rd. Our team of volunteers were also tasked with liaising with the Secretary General who herself was only appointed to the position 7 days earlier and we were just 8 working days away from the first sitting of Parliament.

Only those involved in setting up new offices will appreciate the amount of effort and time it takes to get 7 offices and Board room ready to be fully operational and staffed in just 8 working days is no easy task and all credit goes to our volunteers and the Secretary General’s office.

We were not able to enter the premises until our members were sworn in, so we technically started on October 6th but were fully operational on the7th.

I am acutely aware that there are dozens of loyal and dedicated supporters of SODELPA who are qualified to take charge of the Parliamentary office and I know there are dozens more who can fill anyone of the 7 positions available.

However, there are only 7 positions so those who miss out will be disappointed, however given the constraints in time and the need to ensure we are ready, decisions needed to be made to ensure the Opposition was in place and ready to go from day one, and we managed to do just that.

I have sought and received the endorsement as the Opposition Leader’s nominee to head the Opposition Office in Parliament from the SODELPA Management Board, National Executive and Parliamentary caucus.

We have submitted out list of staff to the Secretary General for her consideration and we have sought to have our appointments on a temporary basis so that we can continue to provide the support to our members of Parliament, as we set about advertising all of the positions available in accordance with Sec 79 of the constitution. This includes the position of Principal Administrative Officer.

All supporters of SODELPA will have the opportunity to apply and be interviewed by a panel consisting of a member of the Management Board and Parliamentary Caucus and the Leader.

This is what we have done and why we have gone about it as we have.

For the record there is no Secretary or car that comes with the position of Principal Administrative Officer, my views about the Razor Research and Fiji Sun remain the same and the absence of facts in the articles I refer to above just serves to further solidify my position. I have never suggested that SODELPA would win 30 seats, my estimate was always about 20 with other parties making up about 8 seats.

I have always maintained that the only way for SODELPA and her partners to lose would be if the election process was compromised. We now know it was and once we complete our exercise on the extent of the compromise, then this question will be answered.

I never led any media campaign for SODELPA, what I did do was organize some specific DVD interviews with specific candidates and officials on specific issues and distributed throughout Fiji to counter the bias and one sided media coverage of the Sun and others. It was successful from my point of view because some 79,000 people viewed it on our Facebook pages and thousands more watched in on DVD.

It is hilarious that as promoters of Equal Citizenry’ the Fiji Sun should themselves be questioning why I as a non iTaukei should be asked by the Leader of the Opposition to head the office where all Members of Parliament are iTaukei?

The fact that Ro Teimumu actually did that should make it clear to all that as far the Leader of the Opposition is concerned, race has nothing to do with her appointments or recommendations.

Asking Dr Biman Prasad to be Shadow Finance Minister and Chair of the Public Accounts reinforces the point.

Leadership

Anyone who understands a little about the Westminster system of governance, knows that the Leader of the Opposition is always the Alternative Prime Minister. The listing of Ratu Naiqama’s name against Prime Minister Bainimarama’s name and portfolio is because Ratu Naiqama is Shadow Minister for Lands & iTaukei Affairs.

The supposed inside story about the selection for Alternative Prime Minister as described by Mr Delaibatiki is pure imagination and speculation. All of the Members were asked to consider their personal strengths and select a Ministry that they felt they could best contribute towards. That was it. Ro Teimumu selected Education, Arts and Heritage and Ratu Naiqama selected Lands and iTaukei Affairs.

There was never a question about who the Alternative Prime Minister was.

The decision by the SODELPA members of Parliament to contribute towards paying the office volunteers some money was something that they did without any urging from me or anyone else. It was a great gesture by the Hon Members and when I heard about it I thanked them on behalf of the workers. There is no Beddoes Fund, just the wild imagination of the analyst.

As of the date of this response, none of us in the SODELPA opposition Office are receiving any pay.

It is probably difficult for Mr Delaibatiki and his masters to understand given that they have all been hoodwinked into believing the ‘my way or the Highway’ method of management for the past 8 years that in a democracy there are different views and everyone is entitled to express their views .

SODELPA as a political organization is no different, we all speak our minds and we sometimes disagree on things and decisions made, but everyone is entitled to their opinion and they are heard and they express their views freely.

More importantly, none of our members fear being picked up in the middle of the night, taken away and beaten up for speaking against something. That’s what a democracy is all about, that’s how SODELPA operates and disagreements are not in themselves a bad thing, it’s a healthy thing to have as it helps to stimulate the mind. Fiji Sun should try it sometime.

I extend to Mr Delaibatiki and others to visit the Opposition Chambers, ask us for the facts and we will gladly provide this. All we ask is that you print it.
Mick Beddoes

http://fijisun.com.fj/2014/10/18/micks-appointment-causes-stir-in-party/
http://fijisun.com.fj/2014/10/20/who-is-the-leader-ro-teimumu-or-ratu-naiqama/

9 Comments

A day late and a dollar short: The Auditor-General's reports were hidden from the voters so FijiFirst Party could go to the polls as 'squeaky clean'

21/10/2014

22 Comments

The Question Remains: Why they hid their salaries for eight long years? And how much was Aunty Nur Bano Ali's company paid by the regime?

Auditor General confirms sighting Cabinet Ministers’ salaries for 2013

The Auditor General Tevita Bolanavanua has confirmed that his office has sighted the details of the cabinet ministers’ salaries in 2013, however, they could not sight the contract details of the ministers.

It is revealed in the 2013 Auditor General’s Report that the contract documents detailing the terms and conditions for the salaries of cabinet ministers were not made available for audit.

The report said that the Chief Accountant Treasury is responsible for the safekeeping and proper maintenance of all accounting records or documents.

The Auditor General said that from their review, it has been revealed that the Ministry of Finance paid a total of $1.86 million as cabinet ministers’ salaries in 2013.

The audit stated that discussions revealed that the salaries are processed based on the amounts provided by Alizpacific Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors.

The payment details of the ministers starts with the Prime Minister getting $278,750 in 2013 while other ministers getting between $130,000 to $185,000.

The audit said in addition, on the 20th of February this year, the Prime Minister received a gratuity payment of $57,500 for the year ended 2013.

The audit was verbally advised that the contract documents are with the Office of the Prime Minister.

The Auditor General said that they made a formal request on the 14th of January 2014 to the Office of the Prime Minister for the verification of the contract documents, however, they were not furnished with the contracts.

It said the Ministry of Finance also made the request with the Office of the Prime Minister but was not provided with the documents.

The viewing of the documents is to confirm that the correct payment of salaries was made to the ministers based on their terms and conditions stated in their contracts.

The management of the Finance Ministry said in the 2013 audit that similar to the Office of the Auditor General, they have also requested for this information from the Prime Minister’s Office.

The Finance Ministry management said they have also suggested to the PM’s Office to allow the auditors to view these documents. Source: Fijivillage News.

22 Comments

CELEBRATE DIWALI IN STYLE: Enjoy Drinks and Tasty Canapes, Butter Chicken, Beer, Wines! WHERE? On the spectacular Island of Gibraltar!

20/10/2014

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No Light Shone on Assets, Incomes and Properties (if any) of wife and children in Bainimarama's declaration under party funding decree - many ask WHY they are in the Dark!

20/10/2014

5 Comments

"First and foremost, I want to pay tribute to my wife, Mary, who has always been a pillar of strength to me and a wise and trusted counsellor. She never dreamt that she would wind up as a politician’s wife but she was a wonderful asset in the recent campaign, and reaching out to ordinary people who got to see us as I have always seen her. I want to thank her for the unwavering love and support, and for always being by my side. I also want to thank my six children and 14 grandchildren, who provided me with so much joy. They would have caused more joy on the way with number 15. As we all know, there is no substitute for a happy family life and I have been blessed beyond measure."
Bainimarama's maiden speech to parliament

THE declaration of assets and liabilities of the leader of the FijiFirst Party Voreqe Bainimarama, showed that Bainimarama:

(1) had a total income of $278,750.

From that money, $230,000 is what he received as annual salary for being Prime Minister, $20,000 for entertainment allowance and other allowances $28,750.

The declaration also showed that Bainimarama had:

(2) three banks accounts in BSP; he had $51,207 in one account, $101,968 in his cheque account and $104,815 in a term deposit account.

He also had $26,042 in a Mataivalu Savings account and $14,443 with the Unit Trust.

His total liabilities were $301,772.88 and total net assets $51,704.60.

He has also declared a Hyundai Tuscon vehicle valued at $30,000 and a property in Nadi valued at $25,000.

1. Bainimarama had not declared what the loan of $246,380 was for from BSP Bank, when it was drawn, given the fact that there was no corresponding liability against that declared loan?

2. Then what was the declaration for the loan of $55392 remaining balance, given the fact that he showed substantial bank balance of $353,000 across 3 separate accounts?

3. How did his asset tally up with his income salary and was the bank balance included for the back pay he received? If not then he should show his bank statements with evidence of it being paid back.

4. Where is his FNPF statement printouts for past 8 years as he had not declared his FNPF funds as his assets as super funds?

"Any directorships or other office in a corporation or other organisation whether in Fiji or abroad held by each of them':

According to the PRPD, Bainimarama should have declared that his son was living with them on 70 Muanikau Rd, Suva, the old residence of the deposed Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki which the Bainimarama family 'couped' up; Meli Bainimarama Junior gives his address as
70 Muanikau Rd, Suva:

"Any person who fails to comply with the requirements of subsections (1) or (2), or provides any information that is false, commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $50,000 or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding 10 years or to both."

5 Comments

Naiwaikula disputes comments: Bainimarama must understand that he is now Prime Minister, not Dictator with mandate to govern, he must exercise his powers with accountability and that includes allowing others to freely express views

17/10/2014

6 Comments

STATEMENT
[No 3/10/2014]

NAIWAIKULA RESPONDS TO BAINIMARAMA’S THREATS

Opposition Member of Parliament Niko Naiwaikula today responded to alleged threats against him from Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, as outlined in the Fiji Sun of 16th October.

Honourable Naiwaikula said that Prime Minister Bainimarama and the Fiji Sun would do well to read the context in which I referred to coups in the Hansard - if they had, they would realize that their claims that I ‘threatened a coup‘ were not only baseless, but deliberately distorted to ‘sensationalize ’the issue for their own benefit of fear mongering.

Honorable Naiwaikula said his reference to coups was in relation to his remarks on ‘True Democracy’ where he said quote:-

True Democracy will only be achieved by a Constitution that contains the following essential elements:

1)   It is the common will of the population;
2)   It guarantees the rights of all citizens, and by that I mean, individual fundamental rights, indigenous group rights, minority rights, workers’ rights, women’s rights and all the other rights that are now established by UN Convention;
3)   It provides within its mechanism a clear separation of powers; and
4)   It must also provide within it a provision that guarantees accountability, transparency and good governance.

I will be so bold as to say that the sooner we convene a commission to look into and extract from all previous Constitutional documents, the good they have in them, combining them all into one that we all agree with containing those essential elements, the better it will be for us.

Not doing so will be an invitation for another coup because we have shown by the very way that we have been voting since 1987, that a coup is a legitimate way to change things. Unquote

This is clearly recorded in the Hansard records.

Nowhere in that statement do I threaten a coup! The fact is, the Prime Minister and his side of the House and the 2013 Constitution are themselves the end product of the coups I referred to as the way we have been changing our political direction since 1987. This is a fact. Plain and simple.

By threatening me as he did, the Prime Minister himself is mocking the 2013 Constitution because he shows no respect or regard for my freedom of speech, expression and publication as stated in the Bill of Rights Sec 17, and my freedom of conscience and belief as stated in Sec 22.

(2)

The Honourable Bainimarama must understand that he is now a Prime Minister, not a Dictator with a mandate to govern, he must exercise his powers with humility, respect and accountability and that includes allowing others to freely express their view and he must protect their right to do so.

Authorized By:
Honourable Niko Naiwaikula
Opposition Member
Parliament House

6 Comments

THE WILL OF THE FIJIAN PEOPLE! Yes because Media Decree did not allow the PEOPLE to ask the new Defence Minister Natuva to explain mismanagement of public funds under his military watch

16/10/2014

4 Comments

"The Director Military Resources (Natuva) should be disciplined for signing LPOs and approving the purchases well above his approval limit. The false certification of LPOs and invoices to indicate that goods have been received in order to be passed for payment was intentional and tantamount to fraud...There was deliberate attempt to manipulate and falsify documents to effect payment...This whole saga shows a blatant disreagrd for established financial regulations and management and expenditure of public funds.
Police should be informed of possibility of FRAUD."
The Auditor-General's Report shortly before the 2006 coup

Zero tolerance for any disruptions to our new democracy - Timoci Natuva

The Minister for Immigration, National Security and Defence, Timoci Natuva said that his ministry will not tolerate any attempt to disrupt the country’s new democracy and the will of the Fijian people. While delivering his first speech in parliament, Natuva said that Fiji’s national security landscape is currently stable and firmly under control. Natuva has also assured the nation that law and order will be maintained and that they will have zero tolerance for any disturbances or disruption. He stressed that his Ministry in collaboration with the Fiji Police and the Military will protect the Fijian people, our infrastructure, our values and our sovereignty. Natuva also stated that the Military did not assume control of the country in 2006 for themselves but to protect the unity of the nation. Source: Fijivillage News

From the archives:

The dictator Frank Bainimarama and his bula skirt and dhoti-clad pompom cheerleaders defending his 2006 treasonous coup do not fail to remind us of the so-called ‘Agriculture Scam’ which they claim warranted military intervention to weed out corruption. Now, it has emerged that the military had overspent over $45million since the coup, as highlighted in the 2007 Budget.

We should not be surprised with the recent revelation. When the Laisenia Qarase government tried to rein into the military and its expenses, the dictator unleashed his gun-toting dogs of war, led by Esala Teleni, the ‘Holy Joe’ sacked police commissioner, then deputy to the dictator. The military began terrorising the democratically elected government, and finally overthrew the SDL-FLP multi-party government on 5 December 2006, claiming it was corrupt. While it inducted the FLP leader Mahendra Chaudhry into its interim illegal Cabinet, it later used FICAC to charge the ousted Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase, to justify the coup. What about the fraud on the part of Frank Bainimarama and those around him, including businessmen doing business with the military?

Documents in my possession since the 2006 coup, made available to me from strategically placed military sources (those against the treasonous coup) inside the Military High Command, reveal that as far back as June 2006, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MFA) had been expressing alarm over the RFMF Budget 2006. However, the highly confidential MHA documents were being leaked to the Military High Command from inside the MHA by one of their former own – a military man. In other words, the dictator and his coup conspirators were acutely aware of what might befall on them, so they began creating ‘smokescreen and mirrors’ until they treasonously overthrew the Qarase government.

A memo prepared for the then Minister for Home Affairs highlighted some of the irregularities that were surfacing in the RFMF Budget 2006. The Memo reads: “The Auditor-General’s Report highlighted the falsification of documents. The brief will show that RFMF is yet again committing the same mistake incurring expenses of $6,179,000. Another LP of $6,136,578.00 is yet to be signed. RFMP is also making purchases without Major Tender Board approved and is stockpiling on its protection and winter issues.”

RFMF BUDGET – IRREGULARITIES

AIM

This submission is to inform you of some of the RFMF 2006 Budget irregularities as follows: Unauthorised purchases; (b) Manipulation and falsification of the LPO’s processed and paid to indicate that good had been received and taken on charge when in fact, they were yet to be supplied or partially delivered; Approval of Tender Board were not obtained for all purchases resulting in the unauthorized issue of LPO’s as follows:$1,900,000 – against a provision of $70,200 for Sinai only – This has been paid in full;$3,879,000$6,136,578 in pipeline but yet to be signed350,000 – This has been paid in full50,000 – This has been paid in full

Manipulation and falsification of invoices to ensure that they are processed for payment by issue of Certified Receipt Vouchers (CRV) (confirming that goods have been delivered and taken on charge in RFMF stores). However upon inspection, it was found that good have either yet to be delivered, partly delivered and taken charge in RFMF stores. The CRV’s provided the certification for payment authorizing the Accounts Section to issue the cheques. These have been paid. RFMF Accounts have paid $1,900,000 (full amount) only to find out later that the supply of goods was questionable. RFMF has also paid item c) iv and v) above. Goods have been ordered and (in some cases, paid already) without due regard on the financial impact of the purchases on the RFMF 2006 Budget

Quantities approved by the Major Tender Board (MTB) was only 270 totalling $133,650, whereas RFMF actually issued LPO’s for $350,000 for quantities ranging from 2000 to 10,000. Some of the goods purchased were not approved by the MTB – eg Laundry Bag (270, cost $50,000; Winter Long John, 10,000, cost $1,170,000) RFMF therefore did not comply with the MTB approved quantities and far exceeded it thereby incurring an excessive unauthorized expenditure amount of $2,250,000 against the approved amount of $133,650. g) LPO’s were signed and issues in excess of the approved limit of $10,000

BACKGROUND

The 2004 Auditor General’s report is recommending the surcharge of the Director Military Resources for the unauthorized purchases from LOTUS Garments (owned by regime supporter Padam Lala, who in 2008 was appointed chairman of the Land Transport Authority by Timoci Lesi Natuva, the interim Transport Minister after the 2006 coup; he was contingent commander in Iraq before taking up his Cabinet post in 2008).

At the conclusion of this submission there is grave concern that RFMF is again committing the very same mistakes and unauthorized expenditures as highlighted in the 2004 Auditor General’s Report. At this rate and, and even at this early stage, it can be confidently predicted that RFMF will again excessively overspend its 2006 Budget.

Lastly, it will be demonstrated that since January 06 RFMF has been stockpiling on its protective gear and winter issues. It has taken advantage of the period of “internal unrest” since 13/1/06 and the lead up to the General Elections to stockpile on its equipment.

UNAUTHROISED PURCHASES

$1,900,000 (refer Annex A).Annex A is the LP No 573506 of 12/1/06 totalling $1,900,000. A-2 is the relevant invoice no 3556 of 17/1/06. The LP quotes a tender No 89/20005.

Comments

This LPO is for the purchase of winter issues. However tender 89/2005 was for the purchase of protective gear (not winter issues). The Tender was withdrawn. RFMF is in this case quoting the Tender Board number and falsifying the document to circumvent the Tender Board Process.LPO was issued on 12/1/06. Invoice was dated 17/1/06. A CVR No 037/06 of 9/2/06 was stamped on the invoice signifying that the goods have been received at RFMF Stores.Upon receipt of the CRV, RFMF Accounts have proceeded to pay $1.9million (from VAT allocation). However, after payment and upon inspection with stores it was discovered that the goods have been partly delivered. Payments should only be made after receipt of all goods. Documents were therefore falsified and manipulated for payment.The quantities ordered for these Winter Clothing (Sinai & Iraq) were far too excessive as the deployed force is only 582. The 10,000 Winter Long Johns is far too excessive for a force ceiling of 3257 pax. Why is RFMF stockpiling?The total amount incurred on these expenses is $1.9million against a provision of $70,200 for winter issues for Sinai; not Iraq and definitely not for the home or local battalions.$3,879,000.00

Refer Annex B

Annex B is an LPO issued to Lotus Garment on 20th Jan 06 for 1000 Body Amour Vest. Total cost is $1,875,000. Annex b-1 is the invoice for the above with a Confirmed Received Voucher (CVR) No 218/06 of 26/4/06.Further Annex B-2 is an LP No 573511 dated 14/1/06 totalling $2,004,000. Annex B-3 is an Invoice No 3557 dated 17/1/06 (only four days after issuing LPO) totalling $2,004,000 with CVR No219/06 of 26/4/06. Total for the two invoices is $3,879,000

Comments

Please note the following irregularities: (a) The items purchased are as follows: 1) 1000 Ballistic Helmets; 2) 1000 Gas Masks; 3) 1000 Hydration Packs; 4) 500 Gas Masks; 5) 1000 Body Canister Amour Vests.(b) The quantities are absurd to say the least! Were these meant for Sinai & Iraq? Firstly the total deployed force is only 582.c) Secondly, I remember distinctly that for the initial deployment to Iraq (Guard Units (GU) the Australians provided the Protective Gear. Subsequently, for Basra and Erbril it is my understanding that the Protective Gear will be provided in theatre upon deployment. So why is RFMF buying all these gear?

In any case, Cabinet finally agreed on the provision of Protective gear for Sinai on 31/1/06d) The LPO’s were issued on January 14th and 20th 06 the period of ‘internal unrest” at QEB, well before the Cabinet approvale) The CO Staff is only authorized to sign LPO’s up to $10,000. At the time of the issue of the LPO no funds were available. i.e. Funds were only wired and approved in late April 06.f) The Auditor General’s report of 2004 highlighted a surcharge of $1,612,630 for unauthorized purchase from LOTUS Garments. Given the above it is indeed unethical for RFMF to continue to do business with LOTUS Garments until the surcharge action is finalized.g) The RFMF is quoting a Tender No 89/2005 (required for UNAMI, 2FIR deployment). This Tender was cancelled when it was noted that the Protective Gear for UNAMI would be met by donors i.e. Australia, (for Baghdad) and UN (for Basra and Erbril). See Annex D. Hence the issue of these LPO’s were unauthorized, over the limit and did not undergo the Tender Process.h) Not all the goods have been received yet CVR’s were issued from the RFMF Stores to secure payment.i) This invoice/purchase is yet to be paid. However, RFMF stores have stamped the invoice CRV on 218/06 of 24/4/06 confirming that goods have been delivered; however upon inspection it was confirmed that goods were outstanding$6,136,578

Refer Annex C

The LP is yet to be signed. However this document refers to the purchase of additional protective equipment. Please note that this same equipment were earlier purchased on LPO’s 573539 and 573511 being Annexures B and B-2 respectively. If Annex C were to be issued then the total number of items purchased would the be: a) Body Armor Vest – 1000+1582=2582; b) Ballistic helmets – 1000+1582=2582; c) Gas masks – 1000+1582=2582; d0 Hydration Packs – 1000+1582=2582’ e0 Gas masks ganister – 5000+7910=12.910Again these quantities are grossly over purchased against total manpower strength of 3257. On 28/4/06, RFMF again attempted to purchase additional items specified herein totalling $6,136,578. Upon enquiry with stores it was revealed verbally that the above is for “election preparation”. This has serious implications indeed.$350,000

See Annex E

Annex E is LPO 573505 of 12/1/06 for $350,000.000. E-1 is Invoice No. 3555 of 17/1/06 for the following: a) Fiji Badges 10,000=50,000; b) Balaclavas 2,000=50,000; c) Gloves 2,000=50,000; d) Goggles(sand & dust) 2000=170,000; ID card holder 2000 = 30,000 – 350,000This has been paid. It is not ascertained whether this have been delivered as there is no CRV NO.$50,000

Refer Annex F

Annex F is an additional payment for LPO 573505 which means an additional payment of $50,000 was made to the same LPO.
Conclusion

Indeed this whole saga shows a blatant disregard for established financial regulations and management and expenditure of public funds. There has been a deliberate attempt to manipulate and falsify documents to effect payment. RFMF has been quoting Tender 89/2005 for all these bulk purchases as a cover to imply that the purchases have been approved by the MTB. They have deliberately circumvented the MTB processes.
Within a span of four months RFMF has incurred expenses of $11,915,578. RFMF has not disciplined the officers implicated in the 2004 Auditor General’s Report on Falsification of Documents and the possibility of fraud.
It can be concluded that during the period of “unrest” at QEB, and the lead up to the General Election RFMF took the opportunity to stockpile on their protective equipment. Although in Annex C the LPO is yet to be signed and issued the fact remains that RFMF has proceeded to stockpile its protective gear and winter issues.

Recommendation:

It is recommended that a special surprise Audit check be immediately conducted on the above LPO’s. No further dealing should be made with LOTUS garments forthwith. An investigation should be carried out for huge payments made with false CRV when goods have yet to be delivered. Procedures for procurement of goods and services should be strictly complied with to ensure proper management of public funds and prevent abuse. Internal control put in place to ensure that payments are made only on invoices for which goods and services have been satisfactorily received and accepted be reviewed.The Director Military Resources should be disciplined for signing LPOs and approving the purchases well have his approved limit. The approval of the Major Tender Board must be obtained for any purchase above $30,000. Officers involved in falsifying LPOs, CRV and invoices to ensure that they are processed for payments should be disciplined and surcharged.The false certification of LPOs and invoices to indicate that goods have been received in order to be passed for payment was intentional and tantamount to fraud. Police should be informed of the possibility of fraud.

Instead of allowing the due process of law, the dictator manipulated his military officers to overthrow the Qarase government, claiming in his takeover speech of 5 December 2006 that he carried out the coup to weed out corruption and make Fiji a race-free nation.

There was no mention in his speech to make his military corrupt-free, and to hunt down corrupt Indo-Fijian businessmen who have tied their business empires to the military’s boots. So, don’t believe in the filth he and his bula skirt and dhoti-clad pompom supporters have been churning out since 2006 about a race-free Fiji.

Fijileaks Editor: If the oppressive MEDIA DECREE had been introduced shortly after the 2006 coup and not in 2010, the convicted FLP leader Mahendra Chaudhry's secret $2million would not have been possible for Victor Lal to reveal in the Fiji Sun of February 2008. Chaudhry would have continued to be Bainimarama's interim Finance Minister, wagging his fingers at all and sundry. Worst, he might have been in Parliament now, either on the FLP ticket or even FFP, while secretly enjoying his $2million in Sydney, Australia. So, just because the 'PEOPLE' have spoken does not mean that the media in Fiji should bury its head like ostrich and pretend a new dawn is on the horizon in Fiji. While the media decree cowed the journalists from not revealing or reproducing materials like the one above on Natuva, the FLP was the only party which the people knew was led by a $2million crook - and it was duly, harshly, and rightly punished at the polls. And they learnt it from the Fiji Sun in 2008 despite the denial and defence of Chaudhry by the Bainimarama regime, and deportation and banning orders against those determined to reveal that YES, here is the evidence that Chaudhry is hiding $2million in Australia. To all the critics of Victor Lal and Fijileaks - There were only two choices: to protect an Indo-Fijian leader for the sake of the race or to reveal his millions for the sake of the people and Fiji. The price of freedom is the eternal vigilance of the politicians.

HIDING BEHIND BAINIMARAMA'S SULU! The people and the media must never allow another 'Chaudhry' close to Bainimarama, whether in Parliament or outside to get away, because Fiji now has 'a new dawn'.

Re: IN RESPONSE TO “FIRCA’S RESPONSE TO FIJI SUN ARTICLE”, 4/2/08

Victor Lal’s letter to Interim PM Bainimarama but he chose to side with Chaudhry

4 February 2008

Dear Interim Prime Minister

“Further to my previous communication in which I insisted that an analysis of the tax records of Mr Mahendra Chaudhry clearly establishes tax evasion, I want to re-iterate that I have no political agenda against anyone, as FIRCA continues to assert, regarding my stories in the Fiji SUN of tax evaders, and whom FIRCA is protecting.

Mahendra Chaudhry: As I stated previously, I still stand by my claims, and I have obtained further details from the Australian authorities that he has monies in Australian banks and had failed to declare the interests he received there to FIRCA. He is yet to account for the thousands of dollars he collected worldwide for the Cyclone Ami funds. I wrote to him in 2006, asking him to open up the books in relation to the funds held in the Bank of Baroda - to date he has not responded.

Fiji Water: Regarding Fiji Water, those involved in the case include the former director of Fiji Water, Mr Kubs, Mr Lyne (who was Mr Kub's expert witness in the case that Mr Kubs lost and FIRCA lawyer Michael Scott (who had given advice to Mr Kubs).

Now, FIRCA is threatening to take legal action against me. Well, I look forward to the opportunity, for perhaps what they are trying to prevent me from exposing, I will be able to expose in a court of law. On law, FIRCA’s own legal consultant, who is most likely to frame charges against me, has been found to have failed to declare $630,000 in consulting fees from FIRCA and RBF over the period June 2004 and October 2007.

According to FIRCA sources, who are disgusted with the double standard, corruption, and nepotism in their organisation claim that Mr Scott’s assessed bill still stood, with additional penalties for late payments now totalling $154,000.

The Debt Collection Department is too frightened to approach him. While admitting tax liability to the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Fiji, Mr Scott instead launched a vicious attack on the officer who audited him during the recent audit of FIRCA staff, calling him, according to evidence I have on me, incompetent, ignorant and someone who was full of malice against Mr Scott.

Many FIRCA officers are horrified because according to them this was the very officer who was tasked by their CEO Mr Jitoko Tikolevu and Mr Aiyaz Sayed Khaiyum to investigate Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki’s tax records and had concluded that he (Justice Fatiaki) evaded taxes, and should therefore be charged with 26 counts of tax evasion - the matter is now a subject of a public enquiry.

Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki and Income Tax Act: Well, if Mr Tikolevu, Mr Filipe Bole previously, and now Mr Chaudhry claim that a taxpayer’s records are private and cannot be obtained without the permission of the taxpayer, then why Mr Fatiaki's tax records, to the minute details, was released by Mr Khaiyum for public consumption?

Did FIRCA or the A-G or Michael Scott seek Justice Fatiaki’s permission before making it public? The truth is that there is a general apprehension that I am inching closer to the big sharks in FIRCA, including Mr Chaudhry, so the best defence is to attack the messenger, discredit me by accusing me of having a political agenda, and then to hide behind the cloth of legalism.

Tax Scam inside FIRCA: The FIRCA Board member is none other than Mr Chaudhry’s relative and appointee Mr Arvind Datt who was the subject of my front page story in the Sunday SUN. I had nothing to do with the FIRCA tender story - for that is not my area of investigation. Mr Datt has been threatening staff, I am told, and only got caught for falsely claiming rental loss on his property because he was harrying the staff to speed up his returns. I have incontrovertible evidence to support my claims that he evaded tax but was caught out.

I am told that there never was any investigation into Chaudhry’s tax matter and that Mr Bole, as chairman of FIRCA, blatantly lied to you that Mr Chaudhry was in the clear. I call upon you to ask Mr Chaudhry, Mr Datt, Mr Scott and Mr Tikolevu to step down so that a thorough investigation by an independent investigator of our choice can look into their tax records.

I still do not understand what is it that is making you so protective of Mr Chaudhry, who is simply abusing his position, and so are his supporters inside FIRCA, while identifying and pursuing his political opponents, according to those inside FIRCA.

The scale of the scandal and tax fraud committed by FIRCA top brass in fact calls for a Commission of Inquiry, which could even bring down your government if I decide to go public on the Doctrine of Public Interest like you invoked the Doctrine of Necessity to execute your December 5 2006 coup.

Let me put it the other way. It took your illegal coup to finally catch the highest judicial officer in the land, Justice Fatiaki, who now admits to irregularities in his tax returns. A report into his tax files concluded that he could be charged with criminal tax offence because “The offence was wilful as Mr Fatiaki prepared his own tax returns and was not misled into the omission by a tax agent or other person. Mr Fatiaki signed the tax returns personally including the declaration that the returns were “true and complete”. The declaration will be tendered as evidence before the court by the very FIRCA officer, who also audited Mr Scott and Datt and found that they had not honestly declared their tax returns.

So the nation is entitled to ask you why should Mr Fatiaki be hauled before a public inquiry and those around Mr Chaudhry inside FIRCA, the likes of Mr Datt and Mr Scott should be untouchables, including Mr Chaudhry.

Independent Commission of Inquiry: I am sorry to have been too long but the gravity of the scandal inside FIRCA is so deep that it needs to be highlighted. It’s time you acted against these people, and it is in their own interests to clear their names, for evidence on me, in the form of their tax files, tell a very different story.

We cannot invoke Section 4 of the Tax Act and allow them to hide, for do you really believe that they will grant me permission to analyse their tax records, if it was so, Justice Fatiaki would have been caught out long ago.

I am willing to fully co-operate with any independent investigator provided all those mentioned are suspended from their positions, including Mr Chaudhry, and failing to do so I relish meeting FIRCA in a court of law where I will be able to produce irrefutable evidence of, what appears from their tax files, systematic tax evasion by these individuals!”
Yours sincerely, Victor Lal

Naupoto to Natuva: Changing of guard is no guarantee of victory at the poll next time; his predecessor Naupoto failed to get elected as FFP MP

And the bullying Colonel who led the abduction of Russell Hunter

4 Comments

MAIDEN SPEECHES REVEAL ARROGANCE, HATE, VISION, HISTORY AND HURT AS 50 MPs MAKE THEIR SPEECHES TO NEW PARLIAMENT

16/10/2014

2 Comments

"Returning Fiji to Parliamentary Democracy is very important because I am fully aware of the pain and struggles ordinary people go through after the coup in 2006. My husband who is sitting in the gallery today was unceremoniously removed from his job as the Director Corporate Services, Human Rights Commission without any reason given until to date. "

"In the last 8 years the civil service has seen some new interesting issues and may I name two. The first one is the heavy militarization as witnessed by military officers taking up senior Government positions, some of them are still in the service and others have graduated to become politicians. However, now that we are back to Democratic rule, we ask the question when will these military personnel in the civil service return to the barracks?"

"The fact that I can not speak in my Indigenous language in this House as per your ruling yesterday tantamount to breach of my Human Rights. So I ask the question is this a democratic way of addressing this issue? Is this the new brand of Democracy that we are hearing from the Government side? Why cant the Government come up with alternative options like provision of interpreters in chambers which I am sure we are all familiar with from our exposure in meetings overseas." SODELPA MP SALOTE RADRODRO

MAIDEN SPEECH – Salote V Radrodro
A)    Introduction:

The Honorable Speaker

1) I rise as a member of the Opposition and the Alternative Government to present my Maiden Speech in this revered chamber for the first time. It is indeed a great honor and privilege to be able to do so and I thank our Lord Jesus Christ in granting me this opportunity.
Madam Speaker;
2) My warmest congratulations on your election—a proper recognition of your widely-acclaimed services to this nation AND I extend my support in your vital role.
Madam Speaker;
3) At this point may I take the opportunity to applaud the comments made by the Assistant Minister for Education in saying that real men do not hit or bully women.
Thank you Hon. Vijay.
However Madam Speaker;
Contrary to that I note with grave concern that the Hon. Prime Minister and the Hon. Attorney General are trying to bully you in trying to be the time keeper and interjecting which is in breach or Standing Orders.
Madam Speaker;
Indeed the actions of Government members speak louder than words.
3) I also rise, in union with members on this side of the House, with a sense of duty and purpose to undertake the essential steps necessary to make sure that our parliamentary democracy works for the benefit of our people and the interests of our country.
Madam Speaker;
4) I am honoured and humbled to stand before you, not only as an elected member, but also as a woman, a mother and grandmother and also as a retired civil servant who worked in the Administrative cadre for 36 years in the Ministry of Health, Foreign Affairs, Public Service Commission, Strategic Framework for Change Office and the Ministry of Women, Social Welfare and Poverty Alleviation prior to retirement in 2012.
Madam Speaker;
5) I recall the days when we worked together, I as the Director and you as the Minister for Women, Social Welfare and Poverty Alleviation and in this regards I am indeed glad that our paths have crossed again. However, even though we are at different sides of the House, I believe we hold the plight of women and children close to our hearts and regardless of our political affiliation we can still continue to work together for new constructive policies to ensure the empowerment and development of women in all spheres of life and the elimination of violence and discrimination against women and children.

Madam Speaker,
6) I also take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude that our beloved Fiji is back under Democratic Rule. Returning Fiji to Parliamentary Democracy is very important because I am fully aware of the pain and struggles ordinary people go through after the coup in 2006. My husband who is sitting in the gallery to day was unceremoniously removed from his job as the Director Corporate Services, Human Rights Commission without any reason given until to date.
Madam Speaker;

7) It has been 8 long years in the wilderness, but now we are in a position to move forward, as alluded to by His Excellency The President in his Opening Of Parliament Address on the 7th October 2014 and accordingly now we can enjoy real democratic freedom, our human rights restored, our Judicial System unfettered and unbiased, where the rule of law is without any prejudice and we have media that is free of restrictions or bias, to print, broadcast and televise the truth, to keep our citizens informed and to inform us, the Duly elected representatives, of our citizens' views and concerns.
However, Madam Speaker;
8) The fact that I can not speak in my Indigenous language in this House as per your ruling yesterday tantamount to breach of my Human Rights. So I ask the question is this a democratic way of addressing this issue? Is this the new brand of Democracy that we are hearing from the Government side?
9) Why cant the Government come up with alternative options like provision of interpreters in chambers which I am sure we are all familiar with from our exposure in meetings overseas.
Madam Speaker;
10) Let me also take this opportunity to congratulate all Honorable Members, for their successful elections to Parliament. In particular, I salute my other colleagues, Honorable Women Parliamentarians, for taking a stand and be counted in this very important part of our history in returning Fiji to Parliamentary Democracy.
11) Women are the mainstay of our homes, the glue in our societies and the change agents who make things happen. In Fiji more than 50% of our populations are women but today we only have 7 women out of the 50 members of Parliament.
Madam Speaker;
12) This is only 14% and the gap is glaring.   However, there are options such as Temporary Special Measure under the CEDAW arrangement or the Quota system and I urge Government to positively consider so as to boost women’s participation in politics.

But Madam Speaker in having said that;
13) I look forward to working together with these fine women and of course with all the honorable gentlemen, to bring about positive and meaningful changes to the lives of our people especially women and children through this Parliament.

B)    Acknowledgement:

Madam Speaker;
1) I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge all those that contributed to my campaign and the success in this journey.
2) To My late parents, Naibuka and Leba Vuibureta, thank you for your upbringing and molding me into I am today. I am sure you are here with me in spirit and I once again hear your words of advice, encouragement and reassurance through the holy words of Isiah 41- 10 and I quote: “ Do not be afraid for I am with you, do not be dismayed for I am your God, I will strengthen you and I will help you. I will uphold you in my righteous right hand”
3) To my husband Kitione, we have journeyed together in an attitude of ‘what’s best for each other is best for us’. your unwavering love and support, has helped to bring me here today.
4) To my sons Viliame, Isimeli and Alipate and their families and especially my adorable grandchildren thank you for your love and sense of humour, which has kept me grounded, focused and brings a smile when the going gets tough.
5) To my brothers and sisters, thank you for making Ta and Na’s words of wisdom come alive through your love and support. To my beautiful big sister Mrs Mere Hudson, thank you for holding my hand on election day, during the count and sitting up into the night awaiting the official result.
Madam Speaker;
May I also extend a big vinakavakalevu to the following:
6) Families from Mualevu, Vanua Balavu, Yacata, Bua in Fiji and abroad
7) My Church family - Tabacakacaka Tacirua, Delaivalelevu, Kalabu, Wasewase Naitasiri, Davuilevu and CMF community.
8) My constituencies under the Vanua Vakaturaga o Kalabu, Makoi , Tacirua Heights, Newtown, Khalsa Road,Caubati and Lau
9) My Campaign team especially Mr Kele Naidiri and family, the Team of volunteers and all polling agents
10) My Adi Cakobau School Old Girls Network , especially my classmates and schoolmates, in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, USA, Indonesia and Fiji. Thank you for the “Waimanu Kui” spirit to “ Always Leave this World Better than we Found it”.
11) My teachers from Adi Cakobau School thank you for teaching me to question, negotiate and debate
12) Friends, colleagues and all those that voted for me around Fiji and abroad.
13) Lastly, the SODELPA party for giving me the opportunity to contest under their banner and vision.
- Thank you all for your prayers
You all have helped me find my political values and live my dream

C)    Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation
Madam Speaker;
1) I am happy to be given the responsibility to be the spokesperson for Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation and also the Public Service from the Opposition side.
2) In this regards, Madam Speaker, I applaud the inclusion of the “Protection of Children” in the 2013 Constitution, however, I note with great concern the absence of any specific provisions for the development and empowerment of women. And as such it remains unclear as to what coordinated plan the Government may have. However that being said, I look forward to the upcoming Budget session to see what is the actual budgetary allocation for the Ministry as a whole and more so for the Department of Women.
Because , Madam Speaker;
3) At the end of the day budgetary allocation mirrors the Government’s mandate and commitment and it is the true measure of their words as expressed in previous statements and those to come.

D)    Constituency Issues and Concerns
Madam Speaker;
1)    In response to HE The President’s Address in Opening Parliament on 7/10/14, May I highlight some issues that were brought to my attention during my campaign trips in relation to the listed freebies like “free water and free electricity” .

Madam Speaker
2)    The “Vatuyalewa Community” in Tovata, Laqere do not have piped water supply and   yet they are the nearest settlement to the reservoir in that area. Each household have all plumbing connections done yet for some reason they are still not connected to the main water line and to this very day they are still using water from the well and rainwater.

3)    There is also a community within Wainibuku – Nakorovou that is not connected to the main FEA grid.
Madam Speaker;
4)    If we are serious about poverty alleviation then accessibility to safe piped water supply and electricity should be first addressed before giving out “freebies”.
Madam Speaker;
5)    Unemployment is high along the informal settlements from Tacirua – Kalabu to Tovata and Makoi area. It seems that the Government’s solution to the country’s problems is to spend, spend and spend on freebies. Of course sometimes you must spend to get results, but you must spend in areas where you obtain not only a significant return on the investment, but where you achieve a variety of positives.
Madam Speaker;
6)    Activities and Industries that create the most jobs should be where our focus is. Job creation alone addresses and resolves many other social and economic problems of our country. We should create more jobs, improve inflows of foreign direct investments, and address the lousy wages our people are currently earning, improve people’s skills so they are employable, design specific programs that will assist our women and young people who are unemployed and those dropping out of schools.

Madam Speaker;
Rubbish Collection
7)    The Tacirua Heights area (where I live), Khalsa Road and wider Nasinu area have been continuously faced with the rubbish collection issue. Concerns raised with the Suva Rural Local Authority have been knocked back to the Nasinu Town Council and until now nothing has been resolved and residents have to make their own rubbish disposal arrangement. But yet we witnessed the distribution of free rubbish bins on the eve of the election in the same area.

Madam Speaker;
For a cleaner environment, the people need assistance in proper waste management and not free rubbish bins.

8)    Lau Constituency;

Madam Speaker;
Part of my Constituency is the Lau Group and I am proud to say that they are skilled crafts makers and are industrious small business owners however their accessibility to market continues to be constrained due to poor boat services. Therefore Madam Speaker, any poverty alleviation programs for our beloved Province, Government must include sea and air transportation as a priority Developmental Plan.

E)    Civil Service:

Madam Speaker

9)    Let me say something about the civil service. In the last 8 years the civil service has seen some new interesting issues and may I name two. The first one is the heavy militarization as witnessed by military officers taking up senior Government positions, some of them are still in the service and others have graduated to become politicians. However, now that we are back to Democratic rule, we ask the question when will these military personnel in the civil service return to the barracks?

Madam Speaker;
10)    The second issue is the massive increase of the Permanent Secretaries salary without any proper Job Evaluation and which totally disregarded market relativity. The salary increases was beyond 100% (range between 110% - 192% ) depending on the size of the Ministry but it must be noted that this increase does not trickle down to Deputy Permanent Secretary and further down the line. The difference between the Permanent Secretary and Deputy Permanent Secretary is beyond 200% (is 260%.) How is that justified? There is a serious pay gap which is basically “Pay Discrimination”.

Madam Speaker,
11)    The Collective Bargaining mechanism has also been removed and therefore the civil servants don’t have any mechanism to file such grievances.

Madam Speaker,
12)    It must also be noted that the similar trend in massive pay gaps do exist with Members of Parliament salary and benefits as stipulated under the Parliamentary Remuneration Decree No 29/ 2014. A comparative analysis between the 2006 and 2014 remuneration show us a massive upward adjustment from Assistant Ministers to PM and a downward adjustment to the Opposition and other backbenchers.

In this regard, Madam Speaker;
13)    In the spirit of justice and fairness, May I suggest that a committee is established to review this pertinent issue?

Furthermore Madam Speaker,

14)    For transparency and accountability in the civil service, there needs to be clear separation of powers. Simply, Separation of Powers in a Democracy is necessary so to prevent abuse of power and safeguard freedom for all.

But as it is we note that the 3 most important Portfolios - Attorney General, Finance and Public Service to ensure separation of powers are held by the same Honorable Minister Khaiyum. And therefore the issue of “conflict of interest” arises and as such the separation of Powers becomes blurred.

Thank you Madam Speaker

2 Comments

HISTORY speech would have been different if Indo-Fijians had not stabbed each other - Faiyaz Koya's emotive speech re-opens question why Siddiq Koya did not become PM in 1977

16/10/2014

3 Comments

The late Siddiq Koya

From the archives
By Victor Lal
Fiji Sun, 2004

Why Siddiq Koya did not become PM in 1977?
He was betrayed by his own Indo-Fijian colleagues: Mahendra Chaudhry

In 1977, the late Opposition leader Siddiq Koya claimed that two of his fellow parliamentarians, Karam Ramrakha and Mrs Irene Jai Narayan, conspired against him from becoming the first Indo-Fijian Prime Minister of Fiji. Both denied the claim but nearly thirty years later, in 2004, Mahendra Chaudhry claimed in his book The Children of Indus that Ramrakha had ‘stabbed Koya in the back’. The book claims that Ramrakha and Mrs Narayan informed the then governor general, Ratu Sir George Cakobau after the April 1977 elections, that Koya did not enjoy the support of all party MPs and claims that ‘at the hour of his triumph Mr Koya had been stabbed in the back by his own people’. The governor general then appointed Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara as minority prime minister.

On 16 June 2004 Chaudhry replied to Ramrakha, who was threatening to sue him for libel, as follows: ‘You may have forgotten a meeting that was held at Mrs Jai Narayan’s residence in April 1977 soon after the results of the general elections were out. As a staunch NFP supporter at the time, I had been invited to that meeting by Mrs Nayaran, along with one Subhash Sharma, another ardent supporter of the NFP. Also present were HM Lodhia, R V Patel, and a few other executives of the NFP. I distinctly remember you coming into Mrs Narayan’s kitchen where Sharma and I were having coffee before the meeting. As you walked in, you blurted out, “It’s a disgrace SM Koya as Prime Minister. I have been in touch with the authorities and let them know that he does not enjoy the support of all members of NFP ”

The matter was later discussed in the meeting, Chaudhry alleged, and views were sought. ‘When I was asked for my opinion, I stated that Mr Koya had led the party to victory and should be given the chance to become Prime Minister. This was not in tune with the thinking of those present. A lengthy discussion followed and it was around midnight when Mr Sharma and I took leave’. Events hereafter only served to prove what had transpired at that meeting.

‘For four days the NFP haggled over who should become prime minister while the nation waited. It is quite clear that the conspiracy within the NFP to deprive Mr Koya of his right to the top position played a major role in Ratu Sir George Cakobau’s decision not to appoint Koya prime minister and instead appoint Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara to lead a minority government. The reason Ratu Sir George gave was that in his opinion Mr Koya did not enjoy majority support in the House of Representatives. The nation, and the Indian community in particular, has a right to know on what basis Ratu George could say that with so much confidence. The entire nation knows that SM Koya was deprived of that right and that NFP executives, including yourself, had played a leading role in that. Mr Koya himself claimed he had been stabbed in the back by his own party officials.’

Chaudhry went on to inform Ramrakha: ‘If the book Children of the Indus puts you in an unfavourable light in relation to a certain event it is because you played a significant role in it. You will agree that the NFP was eventually reduced from a party held in very high esteem by the Indian community to one that in the end lost all credibility because of the incessant bickering and dissent within its leadership. Indeed, if anything the NFP gets away very lightly in the book because the focus of the book is to provide an outline of Fiji-Indian history rather than a detailed account of how the NFP brought about its own downfall.’ The Supreme Court of New South Wales in Australia threw out Ramrakha’s libel claim against Chaudhry over his allegations in the book.

Fijileaks Editor: What an irony. Ten years later, in 2014, it is the FLP looking from outside into Parliament as Indo-Fijian voters returned to NFP and the newly formed FFP. The convicted FLP leader became a victim of his 'own back-stabbing of the Indo-Fijian victims of the Speight coup - for hiding the $2million he got from India after being ousted as first Indo-Fijian Prime Minister of Fiji.

HON. F.S. KOYA.- Madam Speaker, honourable Prime Minister, fellow Ministers and honourable Members of Parliament, this is a very special moment for me to stand in the same Chamber where my father, the late Siddiq Moidin Koya stood 45 years ago in 1969, as the Leader of the Opposition and delivered his maiden speech. I remember as a young boy witnessing this occasion and since then, have been struck by my father’s passion for his country, his belief in Independence and his vision for a new nation – full of opportunities and the promise of a bright future.

   As a Leader of the Opposition and as a Member of the House of Representatives, my father strongly believed in genuine democracy for the newly independent nation, after fighting for years to free Fiji from the shackles of Colonial rule. He pressed for a legislature elected by universal suffrage with a common electoral roll, and for all the people of Fiji to enjoy a common identity under a shared name. I am sure he is smiling from the heavens, seeing Fiji finally united under a Constitution that enshrines the principles that he fought so long for. If you are listening dad, your dream for Fiji has come true and your son is standing here today to follow in your footsteps and to pursue your life’s great passion – to serve Fiji and all Fijians.

   I pledge to serve my nation and its people to the best of my ability as the Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism and as a FijiFirst representative under the leadership of the honourable Prime Minister. Indeed, I would not have this remarkable opportunity to continue my father’s legacy, had it not been for the revolution led by the honourable Prime Minister over the course of the last eight years. During one of our nation’s darkest periods, the honourable Prime Minister emerged with the vision as well as the strength and determination to steer Fiji towards a road of genuine democracy and prosperity.

   When he embarked on this revolution, our Prime Minister was determined to ensure that no one was left behind in the new Fiji. He believed that everyone has the right to such things as free education, better roads, better health services, clean water and electricity. He was not interested in making short-term promises to win political support but he only cared about delivering real reforms, genuine progress and tangible development for the people of Fiji and in so doing, he won my strongest respect and support. I am indeed privileged and humbled to serve under you, Sir.

   Of course, I would also like to convey my humble and heartfelt thanks to my family, friends and close relatives who have had unwavering confidence in me and who have provided me with an overwhelming amount of support and assistance.

   At this point, I also wish to extend a special thank you to a special friend, who is more a brother, the honourable Attorney-General, who, despite being younger, has been my inspiration and it was he who reignited my passion for politics and to serve the Fijian people. Without him, I would not be standing here today.

   Madam Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your historic appointment as the first lady Speaker, not only in Fiji, but in the Pacific Region as well. We look forward to your leadership and guidance in the future, as we debate the nation’s affairs and make laws for the benefit of all Fijians.

   I would also like to take this opportunity, like the other honourable Members who have spoken before me, to thank His Excellency the President for his inspiring speech at the opening of Parliament. His Excellency called on the honourable Members of Parliament to work together to advance the national interest, reminding us that our first duty, above all others, is to keep the trust and confidence of those who sent us here. We are the people’s representatives, our power derives from their support, and I pledge to them my fullest dedication and service.

   Finally, I would like to thank all those who voted for me and also those who voted for the FijiFirst political movement. Your overwhelming support for our vision of a united, just and prosperous Fiji has been a source of great personal inspiration to me. Equally though, I repeat the honourable Prime Minister’s assurance that FijiFirst will serve on behalf of all Fijians, no matter where they live, what their background is or who they voted for.

   Madam Speaker, I am happy to report that we are embarking on the coming session of Parliament from a very strong starting point. The Fijian economy has recorded an average growth of approximately 3.2 per cent over the last five years. Last year alone, our economy grew by 4.6 per cent and we are positioned for another year of strong growth this year. This period of sustained growth is a result of the consistent policies and forward-looking initiatives of the Bainimarama Government. As the Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism, I intend to continue to build on the impressive and considerable achievements of my predecessor, the honourable Attorney-General, in order to continue to attract investment, grow the economy and create the jobs that we all know are needed, especially by our young people.

   As the honourable Prime Minister has said, it is about growing the size of the national cake so that everyone gets a bigger slice.

   I am determined to make sure that more and more Fijians are included and benefit from the growth of our nation’s economy.   I believe in empowering grass root communities and encouraging rural development to bring more people into the mainstream economy. I think that farmers, fishermen and traders should have access to technology, to be able to immediately determine the price and market for their produce.

   I support forging strategic public private partnerships as a way to deliver quality, value, investment, job creation and transparency to the Fijian people. I believe in the idea of Pacific Union – the creation of a single market in the region with the free movement of goods, services, labour and capital.

   Put simply, I have a long term vision to develop an internationally competitive, dynamic economy in Fiji; one that takes full advantage of our location in the region, our resources and our people. I want Fiji to be the hub of the Pacific, the gateway to a region that possesses a huge amount of untapped potential and opportunity.

   Madam Speaker, one of my first priorities as Minister is to ensure that Fiji’s Trade Policy Framework is endorsed by Cabinet and launched immediately to get all sectors of the economy working closely together to achieve our common goal of growth and development. The Trade Policy Framework is a versatile resource that clearly articulates policy measures and strategies that will work together to drive economic growth over the next decade from 2015 to 2025.

   The document spells out Government’s long term vision for Fiji’s priority sectors and sets targets and timelines. It explains Fiji’s stance towards key bilateral, regional and multilateral trade agreements and it articulates a detailed development agenda focussed on expanding trading opportunities, promoting industrial growth, attracting domestic and foreign investment, increasing exports of goods and services, emphasising the importance of value addition and addressing supply side constraints.

   The policy will guide future agreements between Fiji and her trading partners that will help secure more meaningful access to international markets for our products and of course, the policy recognises the vital role that the private sector plays in driving growth and development, mapping out a path for closer co-operation and collaboration with Government and its statutory bodies.

   Madam Speaker, investment is a crucial component for growth. As Minister, my vision is to maintain a sustainable level of investment by proposing initiatives that will increase private sector investment.

   Last year, Fiji recorded the highest level of investment since Independence, at 29 per cent of GDP. This growth in investment was largely fuelled by private sector investment, which represented 45 per cent of total investment in 2013. However, the lengthy and cumbersome investment approvals process remains an obstacle for potential investors and I will take immediate steps to address this issue.

   My Ministry, with the assistance of Investment Fiji is undertaking reforms to the approvals process – started by my predecessor – to establish an online investment registration and approval system. This will create a single application form for potential investors to get approval from all the first tier agencies in one simple step.

   In the coming sessions of Parliament, I will also begin work on FijiFirst’s plan to implement the current recommendation for a new fee structure for small to medium enterprises. Under this structure, micro-finance entities and small businesses will be exempt from paying fees to meet health, fire and occupational health and safety regulations.

   I will also focus resources on setting up the micro-finance start-up or assistance grants to encourage small scale economic activity.

   Madam Speaker, an integral part of my role is to secure new markets for Fijian-made goods and services by continuing to implement and negotiate bilateral and multilateral trade agreements such as the PACP’s Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the EU, the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Trade Agreement and the PACER Plus.

   Although attempts have been made in the past to isolate Fiji from participating in crucial trade negotiations, it is widely recognised that Fiji provides a crucial leadership role that is necessary to strengthen the free flow of goods and services within the region.

   Due to Fiji’s economic importance and position in the region, our neighbours have invited us back into the PACER Plus negotiations and I plan to lead these negotiations with Fiji’s and the region’s best interests at heart. I will ensure that we enter the PACER Plus negotiations on our own terms, as equal parties. It is crucial that Fiji and the Pacific secures tangible, long term benefits from Australia and New Zealand, which so far has been conspicuously absent from the talks.

   Madam Speaker, whilst it is important that we pursue and enhance both new and existing market opportunities abroad, my Ministry also plays a key role in strengthening the local business environment.

   To this end, we will continue to help grow the export capabilities of local businesses through the National Export Strategy (NES). Indeed, I fully support the proposal to increase the NES budget to $2 million for the coming year. This approach ties in well with the commitment of the Fiji First Government to provide $1 million micro-finance set up grants to small and micro enterprises that want to sell crops and other goods and services and that have difficulty in accessing finance from commercial lending institutions.

   Madam Speaker, one of the most successful programmes implemented by the Bainimarama Government is the “Fijian Made and Buy Fijian Campaign” and I assure my fellow members and the Fijian people that I will continue to support and expand this initiative. To-date, more than 190 companies have been licensed under the Campaign, of which 90 are micro, small and medium enterprises. This campaign has instilled a sense of pride, ownership and has also contributed to increased sales of quality of Fijian products. This Campaign in the next year is expected to start promoting the Fijian brand name in international markets.

   Madam Speaker, in the tourism arena, I am firmly committed to maintain Government’s support for the industry and for Tourism Fiji and I believe with close co-operation with our partners in the private sector that we can achieve visitor numbers in excess of a million by 2020.

   Madam Speaker, in conclusion, I dedicate my speech to my family and supporters, especially to my father, who has been my inspiration and guide throughout my life. Dad, I will continue my journey on your principles. I know you are always with me in spirit and I will honour your memory by wearing your distinctive bow-tie at each Parliamentary session, to remind me why I am here and to remind me to keep fighting for what you stood for, and to remind me to always serve all Fijians.

   To my colleagues, honourable Members of Parliament, I remind you that we all have an obligation to move this country forward and build a nation that our children and grandchildren will be proud of.    Vinaka vakalevu and thank you very much.

   (Acclamation)

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SUCKING UP! Sodelpa MP Bulitavu, the anti-government graffiti suspect talks of forgiveness, reconciliation as he awaits 3 November date for next hearing of his trial with others!

15/10/2014

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Bulitavu should have told Parliament which Opposition leader funded the anti-graffiti campaign and burning of police posts!

HON. M.D. BULITAVU.- Madam Speaker, the honourable Prime Minister, Cabinet Ministers, the honourable Leader of the Opposition and honourable Members, one of the world’s earliest and most recognised philosophers, the great Shakespeare had once said: “There is a tide in the affairs of men, which taken at the flood, leads on to fortune. Omitted, all the voyage of their life is bound in shallows and in miseries. On such a full sea are we now afloat, and we must take the current when it serves, or lose our ventures.”

Madam Speaker, I rise to speak in this august Chamber for the first time and it is a great privilege and honour to be able to do so. I owe that privilege to the people of this great nation, who have entrusted in me their trust to be their voice in this august Parliament. I wish to assure them of my undivided loyalty, to living up to their trust, that I will represent their interests and needs first, before my own.

I aspire to live up to the expectations of our people and make meaningful contributions in this Parliament. I also aspire to maintain, if not improve the high standards set by my predecessors, all who have walked along the corridors of Parliament since Fiji gained Independence are leaders of great vision!

Madam Speaker, at this juncture, it would be remiss of me to go on any further without first congratulating you on your ascension as Fiji’s first female Speaker of Parliament. In fact, you are the first female to hold such a position in the South Pacific (Fijileaks Editor: http://www.fijileaks.com/home/order-order-cook-islanders-remind-us-that-luveni-is-not-the-first-woman-in-the-south-pacific-to-become-speaker-of-parliament-cook-islanders-were-the-first)

I join those who have already spoken before me, and the many others who will after me, to tell you that this is indeed a great day for all women in this part of the region. It signifies the recognition that women can equally be leaders in our society and that there can no longer be any excuse to tolerate inequality of gender. On that note Madam, well done and all the best for the next four years.

I wish at this point, to pay tribute to a number of people. Firstly, my campaign team in Macuata. I was blessed to share a common vision with a team of great men and women who like me, believed in a greater calling for Fiji; a nation that recognises Fiji is at a crossroad; a calling to determine the direction to travel to ensure we each a desirable destination for our young nation. First to my campaign team, party agents, financial members, supporters, family and friends, thank you for the common purpose and endless days and nights spent together under the hot sun and in the still of the night. For days, speaking our thoughts and aspirations for the interests of our people and the many others, and with the blessing of God decided that I was believable enough to be their representative in this august Parliament.

My special thanks to the vanua of Caumatalevu; the vanua of Cakaunitabua; the vanua of Lalagavesi and the Turaga Bale Na Tui Cakau, for his outstanding leadership that has held Vanua Levu together.

Madam Speaker, I am also grateful to my colleagues and mentors at the Vitivou Forum. who have since 2012 recognised my talents and have encouraged and guided me along my journey. To all of you, my warmest vinaka vakalevu.

You do not get to this place without stalwart support from many quarters, but there is one source of support more important than any other - your family. My wife, Rasala, who has been a bedrock of my life for nearly ten years. I thank God for her life and the inspiration she has provided to me at all times. I also acknowledge our children, whom I look at daily and remind myself as to why I must fight; to ensure that they have a better future and one where they will have an equal opportunity at the starting line; a future that is void of racial intolerance and minute political bickering; a future in which indigenous Fijian aspirations are acknowledged, nurtured and supported; a future in which the business skills and the prowess of Fijians of other ethnicities now a part of our great nation are learned, and passed on to all our communities for the benefit of a shared learning and adoption.

Madam Speaker, in 1951, a baby girl was born. She was the fourth and the youngest child of Ratu Tevita Ranuinui and Anasimeci Ramunua of Wasavulu, Labasa. The baby girl was born into a family of provincial administrators, with her father being the Turaga Buli Labasa at the time, and she grew up with the strict disciplines of the Colonial era. She was much loved and taught the disciplines of life, of being a good Christian. She was taught to be a lady and a good mother. The baby girl was Elina Ranuinui. Elina later became a school teacher, a good seamstress, she was the best cook in my mind, and a well acknowledged Sunday school teacher. She was an unparalleled role model and motivator. She was my mother and she passed away just four months ago.

Madam Speaker, I acknowledge and pay tribute to her today. She is the reason why I am here. Her privileged and chiefly upbringing never influenced her to be anything less, other than a humble, practical woman, who ensured that her only child in her later years was taught all she herself was taught. For that, I will forever be indebted and humbled. It was her that brought me onto this path. Even whilst dressing me as a young boy for Sunday school in my best white, she would tell me that one day, I will be a political leader.

Since those early days, I have been fascinated by politics. Tragic but true, I have dreamt of standing in this very place and pleading the interests of our people many times. At 32 years of age, I am here and I look forward to your guidance and that of the honourable Members to be a representative, deserving of our people.

Madam Speaker, there comes a time in the history of nations when their people must become fully reconciled to their past, if they are to go forward with confidence to embrace their future. Our nation, Fiji has reached such a time. That is why Parliament is assembled here today, to deal with a new democratic process of taking Fiji forward.

Fijians are a passionate and practical lot. For us, symbolism is important but unless the great symbolism of reconciliation is accompanied by an even greater substance, it is little more than a clanging gong. It is not sentiments that makes history but our actions.

I humbly stand here today, firstly to offer an apology to the honourable Prime Minister and to the Interim Government for my own role in Fiji’s political history. I had and still have strong political aspirations, especially for the things that an iTaukei and a freedom fighter like me holds so dear. Though my political dreams were clear, like any human, I am also vulnerable to error of judgement and I know that I cannot undo some things I have already done. However, I can atone for some of it by seeking forgiveness and moving forward.

It is my hope therefore, to be acknowledged as equally useful as all other honourable Members without stain or prejudice, based on the principle of interpretation as stipulated in Section 3 (1) of the Constitution of the Republic of Fiji, which promotes the spirit of human dignity, equality and freedom.

I am here, Madam Speaker to appeal to this Parliament to reach out to each other and heal our past wounds. Learn from it and help build a better future for all our children.

I fondly remember today that there are times when in our human frail bodies, we feel there is no other reason to go on. The human spirit offers you restitution in the form of the briefest of smiles. I take an example here of one of the darkest periods in my life. As I languished in my prison cell, and when it seemed like my conviction was pushed to the limits, I would see a glimmer of humanity in one of the guards. Perhaps just for a second, but it was enough to reassure me and keep me going.

It is this human affection, whether intended or not, that I ask that we exercise without boundaries in this august Parliament. If Fiji is to progress and for us to be long remembered as the 50 Members of Parliament who really united Fiji, we must break all barriers and embrace each other’s differences. After all, we are here in Fiji to stay. Just as the quote goes, “A man’s goodness is a flame that can be hidden but never extinguished.” I plead to each one of us to reach across the racial, cultural and religious barriers and make this work. I am inspired to say; “Yes we can and yes, we will.”

Madam Speaker, I appeal to our honourable Prime Minister, in particular this afternoon, to help us all move forward. I appeal, on behalf of all political prisoners, to reconcile our differences, embrace our shared humanity and moments of vulnerabilities and to forgive each other. Saint Paul, said “conscience I say, why is mine judge by another.”

I have no doubt in my mind that many who have now lived behind bars for a large part of their lives have discovered the Kingdom of God and have renewed their spiritual minds. They seek an opportunity to move on with their lives, end a life of an outlaw and reunite with their families.

Madam Speaker, I plead with the honourable Prime Minister today, to end the pain and sorrow silently suffered by families, individuals, communities by creating a policy for national reconciliation. It does not have to be immediate, but the work towards the reality can start now.

The words of the late Nelson Mandela is so true when he stated that, “A man who takes away another man’s freedom is a prisoner of hatred. He is locked behind the bars of prejudice and narrow-mindedness. I am not truly free, if I am taking away someone else’s freedom, just as surely as I am not free when my freedom is taken away from me. The oppressed and the oppressor alike are robbed of their humanity.”

Madam Speaker, freedom is indivisible, the chains on any Fijian were the chains on all of them. The chains on all Fijians were the chains on one.

Madam Speaker, I now wish to draw our attention to the economic and social development of our nation. Our challenge for the future is to embrace a new partnership between indigenous and non-Indigenous Fijians. The core of this partnership, for the future, is the closing of the gap between races on economic achievement, business success, educational achievement and employment opportunities.

It is no coincidence that we have broken down social barriers, at the same time we have economic ones. For example, in the last 40 years, the role of women in the workplace has grown enormously, as signified by your appointment Madam Speaker. Likewise, the leading of the battalion march at Friday’s Fiji Day military parade by a number of women. Fiji has also become much more ethnically diverse.

We have a vibrant multi-cultural, multi-religious community and significant population from India, China, Korea, Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific, amongst other nations. When it comes to economic issues, my instinct is for open markets, free competition and as little State interference as possible. And when it comes to social issues, I start with the same preference. I am a believer in the rights of the individual and I am suspicious of the State seeking to exercise control over personal choices. Of course, it is not always easy to brand an issue as social or as economic, and it is hard to get good social outcomes unless you have the money to spend on them.

This brings me to address His Excellency the President’s statements in opening this session of Parliament. In His Address, His Excellency outlined the many plans Government intends to implement for our people, come 2015. We have a vibrant multicultural, multi religious community and significant populations from India, China, Korea, Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific, amongst many other nations. When it comes to economic issues, my instinct is for open markets, free competition and as little state interference as possible. When it comes to social issues, I start with the same preference. I am a believer in the rights of the individual and I am suspicious of the state seeking to exercise control over personal choices. Of course, it is not always easy to brand an issue as social or as economic and it is hard to get good social outcomes unless you have money to spend on them.

This brings me to address His Excellency the President’s Address in opening this session of Parliament. In his address, His Excellency outlined the many plans Government intends to implement for our people come 2015. I applaud the plans that will see $10 million, for example, directed at assisting indigenous Fijians improve their land. May I add, Madam Speaker, that this was a common manifesto item with SODELPA and the other political parties had offerings on land matters as well.

This is an area we all recognise that needs our concerted support and cooperation. However, without restrain Madam Speaker, I ask that as policy makers, we devise ways to ensure that the funding truly benefits the people it is intended for. The shape and form in which this assistance will reach our people, I hope will be properly thought out. The way forward is land innovation and productivity.

In my own personal experience, administering the land leases of our people in the Tikina of Labasa has been a challenge, especially with the recognised fact that indigenous Fijians are often asset rich but cash strapped thus the capital needed to allow us to develop subdivisions, or to implement commercial farming has almost always been non-existent. The funding provided thus by government often just reaches the implementation phase of infrastructural requirements. These have so often required developers to become a necessary part of the development and further, under the current iTaukei Land Trust Board Act, this acerbates the challenge. The developer owns the lease because of his capital and the land owner is confined to just receiving lease money twice a year. A framework must be adopted to enable financial literacy training, skilled training and embody the right style of leadership to steadily move towards indigenous enterprise contribution through industry outputs to be reflected in GDP proportionate to the composition of their indigenous population.
I am compelled to at this stage, to ask that Government considers reviewing policies on business ownerships as well in towns and cities, The lucrative businesses are at present mostly in the hands of Fijians that are not indigenous. Can we please remove the clique that exists in our urban economic spin areas and truly encourage indigenous Fijian participation in business.

I also hold fears that business tycoons from beyond our shores will make huge investments in Fiji and in the process are allowed to control key aspects of commercial operations in this country which hopefully will not extend to some other form of political control. As a business man it is frustrating to be victims of elite tycoon politics, and it would be a sad day for this country if international investors take some commercial and political control of this country.

His Excellency has outlined the intent of Government to provide the basic needs of water and electricity to the most needy members of our society free of charge and with reduced cost. Government also wants to support the education of our children, our most important assets for our future. Free tuition beginning from kindergarten is similar to the aspiration of the SODELPA party and it recognises the importance of laying a solid foundation for the formative years of our children’s education.

Short of criticising all this giveaway’s for our people that many claimed were vote buying tactics, I will choose to believe that the Government has genuine intent to level the playing field for all communities in Fiji so I will restrain my comments at this stage to a conservative caution on national spending and affordability. I am motivated to help Fiji a fairer, stronger, more prosperous, more secure, more inclusive nation. To be a voice for rational policy making which recognises some basic realities to remove the mentality of slavery caused by colonisations indirect rule system that affects 3rd world countries.

Madam Speaker, I would like to mention some specific policy areas in which I will be closely monitoring. Relevant to my interest, I will highlight issues that affect our public enterprises, trade and commerce. I intend to promote liberalisation of trade by influencing the Government of the day to give power back to the people. Madam Speaker, the Government’s expenditure is well above our national revenue, I suspect that Government has no choice but to negotiate the sale of some of its assets. We only sell assets when they are not making any profit. My focus will be for the threshold to be met whereby public enterprises, trade and commerce provide the harmony for the Government to have the ability to repay debt and cut taxes in one end and on the other allow wealth generated from private sector revenues to pay for social services.

My second area of focus is commercialising innovation: moving smart ideas from the laboratory to the marketplace. This means closer ties between research institutions and industry. It means choosing key areas of research where we can build real scale and leverage into a national competitive advantage. My third area of focus is making Government more efficient and productive. That includes more uses of contestability and contracting out in choosing the providers of services. It means better use of information technology. In the private sector, there is a huge focus on giving customers a simple one click approach to completing a transaction. Where is the one-click mentality in Government?

Let us get serious about evidence based policy, using randomised trials to test whether specific programmes actually work. Let us look at using the price signal more extensively to best allocate scarce resources. I think we need less intrusive regulation which uses the power of incentive to secure outcomes.

Madam Speaker, the prayer of this august House seeks blessings of God on the nation. God’s formula is simple “…where there is unity, God commands his blessing…” With those words, I wish this august House well in its deliberations. May God bless our people and may God bless the Republic of the Fiji Islands.

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The Question Remains: Why they hid their salaries for eight long years? And how much was Aunty Nur Bano Ali's company paid by the regime?

﻿"Any directorships or other office in a corporation or other organisation whether in Fiji or abroad held by each of them':﻿

According to the PRPD, Bainimarama should have declared that his son was living with them on 70 Muanikau Rd, Suva, the old residence of the deposed Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki which the Bainimarama family 'couped' up; Meli Bainimarama Junior gives his address as 70 Muanikau Rd, Suva:

"Any person who fails to comply with the requirements of subsections (1) or (2), or provides any information that is false, commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $50,000 or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding 10 years or to both."

Naupoto to Natuva: Changing of guard is no guarantee of victory at the poll next time; his predecessor Naupoto failed to get elected as FFP MP

And the bullying Colonel who led the abduction of Russell Hunter

Bulitavu should have told Parliament which Opposition leader funded the anti-graffiti campaign and burning of police posts!

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"Any directorships or other office in a corporation or other organisation whether in Fiji or abroad held by each of them':

According to the PRPD, Bainimarama should have declared that his son was living with them on 70 Muanikau Rd, Suva, the old residence of the deposed Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki which the Bainimarama family 'couped' up; Meli Bainimarama Junior gives his address as
70 Muanikau Rd, Suva: