Rabuka reminds party of prerogative
PRIME Minister Sitiveni Rabuka reminded his Coalition partner, SODELPA, yesterday that their working committee’s directive that Aseri Radrodro remain in office until this Friday “is in defiance of the powers conferred on the Prime Minister under section 95(3)(a) of the Constitution”.
SODELPA’s management board is expected to meet on Friday to discuss Mr Radrodro’s sacking as Education Minister.
“It has been brought to my attention that the SODELPA working committee has issued instructions for Minister Radrodro to remain in the Ministry of Education until January 26, 2024,” he said.
“I want to make it clear that the instruction by the SODELPA working committee is in defiance of the powers conferred on the Prime Minister under section 95(3)(a) of the Constitution”.
He also said political party bylaws were made under the Political Parties Act.
“The Act requires that parties and their officials must comply with Fiji’s Constitution, the Supreme law.
Mr Rabuka said he had powers under the Constitution to appoint and dismiss Cabinet ministers.
“It is the sole prerogative of the Prime Minister. Therefore, the Employment Relations Act — is not relevant at all,” the Prime Minister added.
“However, the principles of natural justice were adhered to and honourable Radrodro was given every opportunity to explain himself yet failed to respond to correspondence from me on the matter.
“Furthermore, the SODELPA Party Leader, honourable DPM Gavoka, was fully informed of the action I took on the matter.
“As we move forward, I urge all parties involved to conduct themselves with respect for due process and the rule of law.
“The progress of our great nation depends on our collective commitment to the rule of law and democratic values enshrined in our Constitution.”