Investigations Into Alleged Racist and Sexist Recording
An investigation will be called to ascertain if the alleged racist and sexist audio recording of a telephone conversation between two male members of SODELPA is true, says Party Leader Sitiveni Rabuka.
A recording between two men supporting the Kshatriya Hall party faction has been making the rounds on social media since Saturday and has caused an uproar online from the opposing faction.
On the recording the members could be heard saying the party is for iTaukei only and not for other races and that women except for Ro Teimumu Kepa should not hold leadership positions.
Responding to the media yesterday, Mr Rabuka said he has seen the postings online but have not heard the recording. He said the two members would have to be investigated and called to explain.
“My role as the officer responsible for the preparation for elections is made very difficult if the views of the people on the party are affected by our words,” he said.
“I will need to listen to that recording and find a copy of it and refer that to the Acting President for it to dealt with according to the disciplinary procedures and processes contained in the party constitution.” Opposition Whip Lynda Tabuya condemned the recording and the intention of the two men to turn the SODELPA women against each other.
“The conversation happened and the fact that it was said, the intention of the discussion is quite demeaning for women to be underestimated by men and its also a ploy for men to make women turn against each other,” Ms Tabuya said.
“Trying to turn us against each other is mischievous and should not be condoned.”
Shadow Minister for Women Salote Radrodro said she was not aware about the recording as she had just arrived from Bua yesterday morning for the Parliament sitting.