Pension for some former ministers stopped

The government pension for some former ministers and parliamentarians have been stopped from last week.

Fijivillage has received confirmation from some former cabinet Ministers that their pensions have been stopped and they have not received letters as stated in the new Pensions and Retirement Allowances Decree 2009.

Former PM Sitiveni Rabuka was one of the first to be stripped of his pension with his vehicle taken away. He was given a letter.

Permanent Secretary Prime Minister's Office Pio Tikoduadua had earlier said that pension letters have already gone out and while not revealing names, he only stated that one should check with the last government.

Under the new Pensions and Retirement Allowances Decree 2009, the Prime Minister can cease the pensions and retirement allowances and other benefits if he is satisfied that the person has in any way, whether in Fiji or abroad and whether before or after the commencement of the decree, acted or attempted to bring hatred or contempt or disaffection, promote or incite feelings, against the government or any other institution or authority of the government.

Under the Decree, before making the order the PM shall write to the person concerned and invite that person to show cause as to why any pension or other entitlements in relation to that person should not be ceased.

The Decree also states the matter cannot be challenged in any court, tribunal, commission or any other judicial body.