Rabuka demands loyalty from staff to serve

Crossover and be loyal, was the message reiterated by Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Sitiveni Rabuka yesterday.

Addressing staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Rabuka said: “Now at the beginning of our journey together in this ministry I call on each and every one of you, it’s a new start, crossover from wherever your prejudice position has been and try and understand the other person, only then can we truly expect the blessings promised in the word.”

He called on staff to be loyal and to serve faithfully and diligently in their work.

“You’re all here for Fiji and all Fijians,” he said.

“Not many people can stand for election at 74, but I’m one of the few. Now I’m back in office and it’s very difficult then the first time.

“The first time I was allowed to make mistakes because I didn’t know, now I know, nobody expects me to make mistakes so I’m very cautious. We have to be cautious.

“If people out there think we are too slow in doing what we are doing ask them to be patient with us.” Apart from being welcomed by the ministry’s local staff, Mr Rabuka was also briefed by all of Fiji’s Heads of Missions overseas via Zoom.

Diplomatic relations

The High Commissioners and Ambassadors briefed him on foreign policies and Fiji’s vision and national priorities in their respective fields of mission.

They each congratulated Mr Rabuka and stated that they looked forward to working with the new Coalition Government.

Mr Rabuka also acknowledged the work done in advancing Fiji’s interests abroad.

He challenged them to explore ways of contributing in bringing about peace in the Russia and Ukraine war.

Secular State

Mr Rabuka also highlighted that Fiji was a secular state and all Fijians should aspire to live their lives and love one another as Jesus taught.

However, he said it did not mean that they were trying to convert everyone to become Christians.

Prerogative of Mercy Commission

This week government finalised the Prerogative of Mercy Commission which is expected to have its first meeting next week.

Mr Rabuka said the commission would deliberate on inmates who have been incarcerated for long periods of time.

“The government’s responsibility is to set up the machinery and they do it according to the rules and procedures so that freedom and peace may grow in our country,” he said.