Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro has been dismissed from cabinet.
Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka says Radrodro has been dismissed for insubordination and disobedience to his directive.
Rabuka has informed President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere and Speaker of Parliament, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu of his decision.
Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka says while he accepted SODELPA MP, Aseri Radrodro's matanigasau or traditional apology today, he did not agree with the SODELPA request for reinstatement.
While speaking to fijivillage News, Rabuka says Radrodro came with Ratu Inoke Takiveikata, the Turaga na Qaranivalu.
The Prime Minister says the Turaga na Qaranivalu was granted a pardon by the President, on the advice of the Prerogative of Mercy Commission, after serving more than 20 years in prison.
Rabuka says good leaders must maintain discipline and integrity by observing the principles of justice and mercy.
He says Aseri Radrodro will now serve as a backbencher.
The Prime Minister says on the vanua side, everything is clean now but on the government side, the effect of disobedience and insubordination will have to be borne by the former Minister.
Rabuka says his reinstatement will have to be earned now.
fijivillage News has been trying to get Radrodro's response but he has not said anything.
SODELPA MP, Aseri Radrodro has presented his matanigasau or traditional apology to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka this morning.
It has been confirmed that Radrodro and his family presented the matanigasau at the Prime Minister’s residence.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Rabuka had earlier told fijivillage News that if he receives Radrodro's matanigasau, it does not mean his offence is absolved, therefore he does not get reinstated as a Cabinet Minister.
Rabuka says the courts do not always acknowledge reconciliation.
The Prime Minister says the last time Aseri Radrodro’s uncles and relatives presented a matanigasau to Rabuka was after Radrodro nearly killed Rabuka's daughter.
Rabuka says Radrodro showed no remorse and divorced her, and all their daughters moved to be with Rabuka.
The Prime Minister stresses that matanigasau has its place in Fijian Culture, not in Governance and Legal systems, and it must not be abused and must be sincere.
He is yet to confirm whether he will reinstate Radrodro as the Minister for Education based on the request made by the SODELPA Management Board.
There are revelations by the Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka that dismissed Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro wanted to present a 'matanigasau' or traditional apology to Rabuka yesterday.
However the Prime Minister has told fijivillage News that if he receives Radrodro's matanigasau, it does not mean his offence is absolved, therefore he does not get reinstated as a Cabinet Minister.
Rabuka says the courts do not always acknowledge reconciliation.
The Prime Minister says the last time Aseri Radrodro’s uncles and relatives presented a matanigasau to Rabuka was after Radrodro nearly killed Rabuka's daughter.
Rabuka says Radrodro showed no remorse and divorced her and all their daughters moved to be with Rabuka.
The Prime Minister stresses that matanigasau has its place in Fijian Culture, not in Governance and Legal systems, and it must not be abused and must be sincere.
Rabuka says all the alleged coup supporters of 2000 presented (by the Turagabale na Tui Cakau Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu) their matanigasau to the government; but most, if not all, served imprisonment terms anyway, with some including na Turaga na Qaranivalu, Ratu Inoke Takiveikata only being released - after more than twenty years, last month. He also reveals that his granddaughter who lives with him was approached by Radrodro to arrange for a time for him to come and present his matanigasau yesterday.
Rabuka told his granddaughter to tell her father not to come on Sunday but Rabuka may have time today.
The Prime Minister stresses that a matanigasau is a confession of wrongdoing and is personal.
He says Radrodro’s disobedience is not to Rabuka personally but to the Institution of Cabinet, Government and the Country and their Laws and Regulations.
Rabuka has said he shall consider his actions, moving forward, with a balanced view of Coalition Discipline, Obedience, Loyalty, and what the required effects of corrective disciplinary action on a member of an organization should have on the organization.
He made this comment to fijivillage News when asked on whether he will reinstate Radrodro as the Minister for Education.
Rabuka confirms that Deputy Prime Minister, Viliame Gavoka brought a covering letter, signed by the Party President, Party General Secretary, and Party Leader Gavoka with the SODELPA Management Board resolution, and they had a long discussion at the PM’s Office on Friday.
The Prime Minister says it conveyed a message that came out of an objective Management Board Meeting with the benefit of clear-headed assessment, devoid of ‘knee jerk’ staccato comments that came from SODELPA GS and Working Committee, of the situation within the Coalition Government and proper consideration of the machinery of governance and the application of the rule of law.
We are currently trying to get Aseri Radrodro. Stay with us for developments.
Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka says he shall consider his actions, moving forward, with a balanced view of Coalition Discipline, Obedience, Loyalty, and what the required effects of corrective disciplinary action on a member of an organization should have on the organization.
Rabuka has made this comment to fijivillage News when asked on whether he will reinstate SODELPA MP, Aseri Radrodro as the Minister for Education.
Rabuka confirms that Deputy Prime Minister, Viliame Gavoka brought a covering letter, signed by the Party President, Party General Secretary, and Party Leader Gavoka with the SODELPA Management Board resolution, and they had a long discussion at the PM’s Office yesterday afternoon.
The Prime Minister says it conveyed a message that came out of an objective Management Board Meeting with the benefit of clear-headed assessment, devoid of ‘knee jerk’ staccato comments that came from SODELPA GS and Working Committee, of the situation within the Coalition Government and proper consideration of the machinery of governance and the application of the rule of law.
Stay with us for developments.
The SODELPA Leader Viliame Gavoka has handed in their resolution papers to the Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka at the Prime Minister's Office this afternoon.
This was confirmed to fijivillage News by the General Secretary Viliame Takayawa who says that they are at the People's Alliance Office to rekindle their talanoa session.
The SODELPA Management Board has unanimously agreed that SODELPA should write to Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka to reinstate SODELPA MP, Aseri Radrodro as the Minister for Education.
30 of the 43 members turned up for the meeting today.
No options presented by the Working Group like speaking to the FijiFirst were looked at.
Gavoka says there was zero talk on this.
The unity is very strong within SODELPA.
This was the message from SODELPA MP and former Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro after the party’s Management Board unanimously agreed that SODELPA should write to Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka to reinstate Radrodro as the Minister for Education.
He says the resolution was made today and all members voted for the resolution.
Radrodro had earlier made a public apology and requested the Prime Minister to reinstate him as the Minister for Education.
30 out of the 43 members of the Management Board attended today's meeting at the Southern Cross Hotel.
The SODELPA Management Board has unanimously agreed that SODELPA should write to Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka to reinstate SODELPA MP, Aseri Radrodro as the Minister for Education.
The board sat in Suva to look at issues dealing with the dismissed Minister for Education, Radrodro, and the explanations given by the Prime Minister on why Radrodro was dismissed which relates to the Fiji National University Council appointments, and Radrodro’s written response to Rabuka’s statement.
SODELPA Leader, Viliame Gavoka also made it clear that SODELPA fully supports the coalition government and Prime Minister Rabuka.
Gavoka says they have passed a resolution to plead with the Prime Minister to relook at the case of Aseri Radrodro, and to reinstate him.
He says they believe that a number of issues were unclear, some communication could have been better and Radrodro had done exactly what was required of him by the Prime Minister and as per the Charter of the FNU.
Gavoka says they know there has been a sense of anxiety in the community over the past few days but SODELPA assures the country that they will support the government of the day, and they believe they have a good case on which they will plead to the Prime Minister to reinstate Radrodro as the Minister.
He says they believe the resolution creates the space for dialogue, and they know the Prime Minister has a big heart, and will do justice to the request.
Gavoka also says there is no timeframe, ultimatum or demand to the Prime Minister as this is based on goodwill.
Radrodro had earlier made a public apology and requested the Prime Minister to reinstate him as the Minister for Education.
SODELPA Leader and Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka, former SODELPA Leader Ro Teimumu Kepa, SODELPA MP Aseri Radrodro, Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Ifereimi Vasu, SODELPA Youth President Ben Daveta, Youth Vice President Koroi Tikoilomaloma and other board members were in attendance.
30 members turned up for the meeting today.
No options presented by the Working Group like speaking to the FijiFirst were looked at.
Gavoka says there was zero talk on this.
The SODELPA Management Board is currently looking at the request for the Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka to reinstate SODELPA MP, Aseri Radrodro as the Minister for Education.
The 43 member board is sitting in Suva to look at issues dealing with the dismissed Minister for Education, Radrodro, and the explanations given by the Prime Minister on why Radrodro was dismissed which relates to the Fiji National University Council appointments, and Radrodro’s written response to Rabuka’s statement.
Radrodro has also made a public apology and requested the Prime Minister to reinstate him as the Minister for Education.
SODELPA General Secretary, Viliame Takayawa says they are discussing the coalition agreement, party leadership elections in April, and review of the SODELPA Constitution including the proposed reduction of the party’s management board members. He says the reduction of the board numbers is to streamline things before the 2026 elections.
Takayawa says the management board is made up of executive members constituency, women and youth members.
SODELPA Leader and Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka, former SODELPA Leader Ro Teimumu Kepa, SODELPA MP Aseri Radrodro, Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Ifereimi Vasu, SODELPA Youth President Ben Daveta, Youth Vice President Koroi Tikoilomaloma and other board members are in attendance.
The management board will look at the SODELPA Working Group recommendations which include looking at the option to start discussions with the FijiFirst Party.
Stay with us for developments.
The SODELPA Management Board meeting is set to start at the Southern Cross Hotel in Suva this hour.
The 43 member board will sit to look at issues dealing with the dismissed Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, and the explanations given by the Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka on why Radrodro was dismissed which relates to the Fiji National University Council appointments, and Radrodro’s written response to Rabuka’s statement.
Radrodro has also made a public apology and requested the Prime Minister to reinstate him as the Minister for Education.
SODELPA General Secretary, Viliame Takayawa says they are discussing the coalition agreement, party leadership elections in April, and review of the SODELPA Constitution including the proposed reduction of the party’s management board members. He says the reduction of the board numbers is to streamline things before the 2026 elections.
Takayawa says the management board is made up of executive members constituency, women and youth members.
He says they need have a quorum of 22 to have the meeting.
SODELPA Leader and Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka, former SODELPA Leader Ro Teimumu Kepa, SODELPA MP Aseri Radrodro, Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Ifereimi Vasu, SODELPA Youth President Ben Daveta, Youth Vice President Koroi Tikoilomaloma and other board members are in attendance.
The management board will look at the SODELPA Working Group recommendations which include looking at the option to start discussions with the FijiFirst Party.
Stay with us for developments.
Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka says SODELPA is free to go and form a coalition with the FijiFirst but they must first break the current agreement.
Rabuka made these comments when asked about the SODELPA Working Group option for the management board to approve talks with the FijiFirst.
Rabuka also says he was not in SODELPA when asked for his comments on former SODELPA Management Board Vice President, Anare Jale saying that Aseri Radrodro was pushing multiple times for SODELPA to join the FijiFirst after the 2022 general elections.
Rabuka says the coalition is still unable to find out who apart from the opposition voted against the motion for him to be the Prime Minister on Christmas Eve in 2022, as it was a secret ballot.
He also says he has no expectations from today’s SODELPA Management Board meeting, as the party will have it’s own discussions.
Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka says he was not in SODELPA when asked for his comments on former SODELPA Management Board Vice President, Anare Jale saying that Aseri Radrodro was pushing multiple times for SODELPA to join the FijiFirst after the 2022 general elections.
Rabuka says the coalition is still unable to find out who apart from the opposition voted against the motion for him to be the Prime Minister on Christmas Eve in 2022, as it was a secret ballot.
He also says he has no expectations from today’s SODELPA Management Board meeting, as the party will have it’s own discussions.
While responding to questions, Rabuka also says SODELPA is free to go and form a coalition with the FijiFirst but they must first break the current agreement.
Deputy Prime Minister and SODELPA Leader, Viliame Gavoka stresses that SODELPA will support the People’s Coalition Government for it's full term.
Gavoka made this clear when questioned on issues being raised about the support to Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka.
Gavoka also says he had assumed that everything was rectified in regards to the appointment of the Fiji National University Council, but he had informed the Prime Minister after Christmas last year.
Speaking to fijivillage News at the Ministry of Education Headquarters in Suva, Gavoka says the dismissed Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, had written to him about the FNU Council, and he decided to meet privately with Radrodro.
He says Radrodro had assured him that he had reinstated the four Councillors and the processes in place to rectify the concerns expressed by the Prime Minister at the time.
He adds during that time, FNU had been performing well, and he assumed that everything was going well, and he left it at that.
The SODELPA Leader says before Christmas, he learned that he had to convey this to the Prime Minister, and he did so after Christmas.
Gavoka says he received a letter a few days later from the Prime Minister informing him of the actions that they had taken.
When questioned if Gavoka supported the decision of the Prime Minister, Gavoka said Sitiveni Rabuka is the Prime Minister and he has to protect his office.
He says people have to realise that he is part of the executives who are in charge of the management of this country.
Radrodro was dismissed from cabinet last Friday.
Rabuka says Radrodro has been dismissed for insubordination and disobedience to his directive.
Rabuka has informed President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere and Speaker of Parliament, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu of his decision.
The SODELPA Management Board will meet this Friday at 10am at the Southern Cross Hotel to deliberate on the coalition agreement and the dismissal of Radrodro.
Dismissed Minister of Education, Aseri Radrodro has made a public apology for all the drama caused and has asked the Prime Minister if his termination can be rescinded, and for it to be noted that this is a matter of miscommunication of the various parties involved.
Radrodro says this matter provides a good lesson for us moving forward to dialogue as leaders in good faith and to remove any personal bias that may cloud our good judgement, for our people certainly deserve better.
SODELPA and its MP Aseri Radrodro have written to the Prime Minister’s Office asking for the reinstatement of Radrodro as the Minister for Education.
The letter also consists of the correspondence in regards to the appointment of the Fiji National University Council.
Radrodro says he acted on the advice of the Solicitor General and not on the advice of the Prime Minister.
While speaking to the media at the SODELPA Headquarters in Suva, Radrodro says the advice from the Solicitor General's office is mandated by law, and the appointment of the FNU Council is done according to the FNU Act.
Radrodro also claims during the press conference that there were communication issues, which resulted in the Prime Minister not knowing what had truly transpired. The former Minister for Education says the FNU Council that was removed was reinstated on 14th September 2023.
Meanwhile, SODELPA General Secretary Viliame Takayawa says from the messages they received, it is evident that the Prime Minister has lost control of his office, and the correspondence sent to his office has neither been acknowledged nor responded to.
He says after the SODELPA statement on Friday, they received an overwhelming number of calls and messages from high-profile People’s Alliance supporters, public servants, and MPs who wish to stay anonymous supporting their call for the PM to step down.
Takayawa says SODELPA has written several letters to the PM over the last six months with no response, and just yesterday morning, the party received its only second correspondence in the last 13 months regarding Aseri Radrodro’s dismissal statement by the PM that was aired via the Government facebook page.
He adds when the Office of the Prime Minister made the call to reshuffle the cabinet, due process was not followed and a similar situation occurred again.
The SODELPA General Secretary says this type of leadership is unsuitable and eventually not only SODELPA but the public will have to say enough is enough.
Takayawa says the People’s Alliance management board and the MPs need to take control of the situation before further damage is caused by the Prime Minister’s Office and there is no point in airing his discontent behind closed doors when he can see what is unfolding in front of his eyes.
He adds Fiji deserves a stable united government, and SODELPA has been committed to this from day 1 in accordance with the Coalition Agreement.
He further adds the Prime Minister has been manipulating the agreement in its favour when it suits them, and this is not suitable.
He also stressed that their support for the coalition government is intact.
The SODELPA Management Board will meet this Friday at 10am at the Southern Cross Hotel to deliberate on the coalition agreement and the dismissal of Radrodro.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stresses to the public that he stands by his decision to dismiss the Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro from cabinet.
Rabuka says in November last year, he requested SODELPA Leader, Viliame Gavoka to raise the Prime Minister's concern and disappointment with the SODELPA Management Board regarding the failure of Radrodro to comply with the Fiji National University Act in removing the Chairperson and three members of the FNU Council in May 2023 and Radrodro’s failure to comply with legal advice from the Solicitor General for reinstatement of the Chairperson and three members of the FNU Council. Rabuka says he urged Gavoka to urge the SODELPA Management Board to consider taking action to ensure the unlawful decisions made by Radrodro, are rescinded, as it could invite serious legal consequences for the Coalition Government.
The Prime Minister stresses that Radrodro's dismissal is effective from yesterday and he may no longer exercise the powers and privileges of the Minister for Education while Gavoka assumes the Education portfolio as of yesterday.
He also reminded SODELPA that they must also ensure that the working committee does not exceed its mandate in purporting to exercise the powers of the management board as set out in its party constitution. He also urges all parties involved to conduct themselves with respect for due process and the rule of law as the progress of our great nation depends on their collective commitment to the rule of law and democratic values enshrined in the constitution.
He stresses that after careful consideration of all relevant factors, he will not change his stand regarding Radrodro's dismissal.
While delivering a live address, Rabuka says regarding the dispatch of letters to Radrodro on Friday, he also wants to clarify that his public statement on the dismissal was published only after confirmation of the dispatch of letters to Radrodro, the President and the Speaker of the Parliament on Friday. He says the Constitution guides his actions, and he remains committed to upholding its principles.
The Prime Minister says his decision was not made lightly and was taken only after due process had been followed.
Rabuka reveals that he had written three letters to Radrodro since September 2023 and held discussions with Deputy Prime Minister and Party Leader of SODELPA Viliame Gavoka in October and then he wrote to Gavoka in early November with a follow up of two letters to Radrodro in December last year.
Rabuka further says he has been advised by Deputy Prime Minister, Manoa Kamikamica that when he was the Acting Prime Minister in May 2023, he requested the Solicitor General to provide him a copy of the legal opinion with regards to the termination of the FNU Chair and Council Members.
Rabuka said Radrodro had been advised to comply with the legal advice from the Solicitor General and he assured the Acting Prime Minister that he would address the issue accordingly. Rabuka says he does not have a direct conduit to SODELPA or its Management Board and the channel of communication is through the Deputy Prime Minister and the SODELPA Party and Parliamentary Leader, Viliame Gavoka.
He also acknowledged the public's understanding and trust that they will navigate these challenges in the best interests of the people of Fiji.
Meanwhile, Rabuka had made it clear on fijivillage Straight Talk With Vijay Narayan in October last year that he would remove Radrodro from cabinet if he continued to refuse to follow his directives.
SODELPA Party and its MP Aseri Radrodro have written to the Prime Minister’s Office asking for the reinstatement of Radrodro as the Minister for Education.
The letter also consists of the correspondence in regards to the appointment of the Fiji National University Council.
Radrodro says he acted on the advice of the Solicitor General and not on the advice of the Prime Minister.
While speaking to the media at the SODELPA Headquarters in Suva, Radrodro says the advice from the Solicitor General's office is mandated by law, and the appointment of the FNU Council is done according to the FNU Act.
Radrodro also claims during the press conference that there were communication issues, which resulted in the Prime Minister not knowing what had truly transpired.
The former Minister for Education says the FNU Council that was removed was reinstated on 14th September 2023.
Meanwhile, SODELPA General Secretary Viliame Takayawa says from the messages they received, it is evident that the Prime Minister has lost control of his office, and the correspondence sent to his office has neither been acknowledged nor responded to.
He says after the SODELPA statement on Friday, they received an overwhelming number of calls and messages from high-profile People’s Alliance supporters, public servants, and MPs who wish to stay anonymous supporting their call for the PM to step down.
Takayawa says SODELPA has written several letters to the PM over the last six months with no response, and just this morning, the party received its only second correspondence in the last 13 months regarding Aseri Radrodro’s dismissal statement by the PM that was aired via the Government facebook page.
He adds when the Office of the Prime Minister made the call to reshuffle the cabinet, due process was not followed and a similar situation occurred again.
The SODELPA General Secretary says this type of leadership is unsuitable and eventually not only SODELPA but the public will have to say enough is enough.
Takayawa says the People’s Alliance management board and the MPs need to take control of the situation before further damage is caused by the Prime Minister’s Office and there is no point in airing his discontent behind closed doors when he can see what is unfolding in front of his eyes.
He adds Fiji deserves a stable united government, and SODELPA has been committed to this from day 1 in accordance with the Coalition Agreement.
He further adds the Prime Minister has been manipulating the agreement in its favour when it suits them, and this is not suitable.
He also stressed that their support for the coalition government is intact.
The SODELPA Management Board will meet this Friday at 10am at the Southern Cross Hotel to deliberate on the coalition agreement and the dismissal of Radrodro.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stresses to the public that he stands by his decision to dismiss the Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro from cabinet.
Rabuka says in November last year, he requested SODELPA Leader, Viliame Gavoka to raise the Prime Minister's concern and disappointment with the SODELPA Management Board regarding the failure of Radrodro to comply with the Fiji National University Act in removing the Chairperson and three members of the FNU Council in May 2023 and Radrodro’s failure to comply with legal advice from the Solicitor General for reinstatement of the Chairperson and three members of the FNU Council.
Rabuka says he urged Gavoka to urge the SODELPA Management Board to consider taking action to ensure the unlawful decisions made by Radrodro, are rescinded, as it could invite serious legal consequences for the Coalition Government.
The Prime Minister stresses that Radrodro's dismissal is effective from today and he may no longer exercise the powers and privileges of the Minister for Education while Gavoka assumes the Education portfolio as of today.
He also reminded SODELPA that they must also ensure that the working committee does not exceed its mandate in purporting to exercise the powers of the management board as set out in its party constitution.
He also urges all parties involved to conduct themselves with respect for due process and the rule of law as the progress of our great nation depends on their collective commitment to the rule of law and democratic values enshrined in the constitution.
He stresses that after careful consideration of all relevant factors, he will not change his stand regarding Radrodro's dismissal.
While delivering a live address, Rabuka says regarding the dispatch of letters to Radrodro on Friday, he also wants to clarify that his public statement on the dismissal was published only after confirmation of the dispatch of letters to Radrodro, the President and the Speaker of the Parliament on Friday.
He says the Constitution guides his actions, and he remains committed to upholding its principles.
The Prime Minister says his decision was not made lightly and was taken only after due process had been followed.
Rabuka reveals that he had written three letters to Radrodro since September 2023 and held discussions with Deputy Prime Minister and Party Leader of SODELPA Viliame Gavoka in October and then he wrote to Gavoka in early November with a follow up of two letters to Radrodro in December last year.
Rabuka further says he has been advised by Deputy Prime Minister, Manoa Kamikamica that when he was the Acting Prime Minister in May 2023, he requested the Solicitor General to provide him a copy of the legal opinion with regards to the termination of the FNU Chair and Council Members.
Rabuka said Radrodro had been advised to comply with the legal advice from the Solicitor General and he assured the Acting Prime Minister that he would address the issue accordingly. Rabuka says he does not have a direct conduit to SODELPA or its Management Board and the channel of communication is through the Deputy Prime Minister and the SODELPA Party and Parliamentary Leader, Viliame Gavoka.
He also acknowledged the public's understanding and trust that they will navigate these challenges in the best interests of the people of Fiji.
Meanwhile, Rabuka had made it clear on fijivillage Straight Talk With Vijay Narayan in October last year that he would remove Radrodro from cabinet if he continued to refuse to follow his directives.
The SODELPA Management Board has unanimously agreed that SODELPA should write to Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka to reinstate SODELPA MP, Aseri Radrodro as the Minister for Education.
The board sat in Suva to look at issues dealing with the dismissed Minister for Education, Radrodro, and the explanations given by the Prime Minister on why Radrodro was dismissed which relates to the Fiji National University Council appointments, and Radrodro’s written response to Rabuka’s statement.
SODELPA Leader, Viliame Gavoka also made it clear that SODELPA fully supports the coalition government and Prime Minister Rabuka.
Gavoka says they have passed a resolution to plead with the Prime Minister to relook at the case of Aseri Radrodro, and to reinstate him.
He says they believe that a number of issues were unclear, some communication could have been better and Radrodro had done exactly what was required of him by the Prime Minister and as per the Charter of the FNU.
Gavoka says they know there has been a sense of anxiety in the community over the past few days but SODELPA assures the country that they will support the government of the day, and they believe they have a good case on which they will plead to the Prime Minister to reinstate Radrodro as the Minister.
He says they believe the resolution creates the space for dialogue, and they know the Prime Minister has a big heart, and will do justice to the request.
Gavoka also says there is no timeframe, ultimatum or demand to the Prime Minister as this is based on goodwill.
Radrodro had earlier made a public apology and requested the Prime Minister to reinstate him as the Minister for Education.
SODELPA Leader and Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka, former SODELPA Leader Ro Teimumu Kepa, SODELPA MP Aseri Radrodro, Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Ifereimi Vasu, SODELPA Youth President Ben Daveta, Youth Vice President Koroi Tikoilomaloma and other board members were in attendance.
30 members turned up for the meeting today.
No options presented by the Working Group like speaking to the FijiFirst were looked at.
Gavoka says there was zero talk on this.
Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka says SODELPA is free to go and form a coalition with the FijiFirst but they must first break the current agreement.
Rabuka made these comments when asked about the SODELPA Working Group option for the management board to approve talks with the FijiFirst.
Rabuka also says he was not in SODELPA when asked for his comments on former SODELPA Management Board Vice President, Anare Jale saying that Aseri Radrodro was pushing multiple times for SODELPA to join the FijiFirst after the 2022 general elections.
Rabuka says the coalition is still unable to find out who apart from the opposition voted against the motion for him to be the Prime Minister on Christmas Eve in 2022, as it was a secret ballot.
He also says he has no expectations from today’s SODELPA Management Board meeting, as the party will have it’s own discussions.
SODELPA General Secretary, Viliame Takayawa has assured the people of the country that there is no planned overturning of the current coalition agreement by the SODELPA Management Board when it meets this Friday.
Takayawa says they respect the Prime Minister’s powers and prerogative to hire and fire cabinet ministers.
He says the SODELPA Office has prepared all the details on SODELPA MP, Aseri Radrodro’s dismissal from cabinet, the reasons given by the Prime Minister and the response by Radrodro.
Takayawa says the Prime Minister has the discretion but they just have to amend the agreement based on the circumstances now.
He says the management board will make it’s stand known after the meeting.
When asked on fijivillage Straight Talk With Vijay Narayan on the proposal made to open up doors for negotiations with other parties including the FijiFirst where people are also saying that this can be seen as SODELPA holding the country and coalition at ransom, Takayawa says we can say the comments and recommendations were made in some anger and haste.
Takayawa also says the current stand of the party is to support the People’s Coalition, and the recommendation is to start to talk to other parties in parliament.
He is also requesting the Prime Minister to respond to the concerns of SODELPA which has been sent in writing, and to ensure the coalition partners have monthly meetings as earlier agreed.
Takayawa stresses the management board understands that it is the prerogative of the Prime Minister to appoint and dismiss ministers.
Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka says he will wait for the SODELPA Management Board’s communication after their meeting which will also focus on the dismissal of SODELPA MP, Aseri Radrodro as Minister for Education.
While speaking in Taveuni on whether he will relook at Radrodro’s dismissal after his public apology two days ago and a request to be reinstated as the Minister for Education, Rabuka says the coalition will await the management board’s decision.
Rabuka says at the moment, Deputy Prime Minister and SODELPA Leader, Viliame Gavoka has been assigned the Education portfolio as part of the coalition agreement.
He says although Radrodro has made an apology and wants to be reinstated, we should wait for the process to be finished.
The SODELPA Management Board meeting will be held at 10am this Friday.
Deputy Prime Minister and SODELPA Leader, Viliame Gavoka stresses that SODELPA will support the People’s Coalition Government for it's full term.
Gavoka made this clear when questioned on issues being raised about the support to Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka.
Gavoka also says he had assumed that everything was rectified in regards to the appointment of the Fiji National University Council, but he had informed the Prime Minister after Christmas last year.
Speaking to fijivillage News at the Ministry of Education Headquarters in Suva, Gavoka says the dismissed Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, had written to him about the FNU Council, and he decided to meet privately with Radrodro.
He says Radrodro had assured him that he had reinstated the four Councillors and the processes in place to rectify the concerns expressed by the Prime Minister at the time.
He adds during that time, FNU had been performing well, and he assumed that everything was going well, and he left it at that.
The SODELPA Leader says before Christmas, he learned that he had to convey this to the Prime Minister, and he did so after Christmas.
Gavoka says he received a letter a few days later from the Prime Minister informing him of the actions that they had taken.
When questioned if Gavoka supported the decision of the Prime Minister, Gavoka said Sitiveni Rabuka is the Prime Minister and he has to protect his office.
He says people have to realise that he is part of the executives who are in charge of the management of this country.
Radrodro was dismissed from cabinet last Friday.
Rabuka says Radrodro has been dismissed for insubordination and disobedience to his directive.
Rabuka has informed President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere and Speaker of Parliament, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu of his decision.
The SODELPA Management Board will meet this Friday at 10am at the Southern Cross Hotel to deliberate on the coalition agreement and the dismissal of Radrodro.
Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka’s appointment of Deputy Prime Minister and SODELPA Leader, Viliame Gavoka as Minister for Education has been gazetted.
The gazette states that in exercise of the powers vested in the Prime Minister under section 92 (3) of the Constitution, he has assigned all the responsibilities of the Minister for Education to Gavoka from the 22nd of January this year.
The legal process has moved forward although dismissed Minister, Aseri Radrodro had made a public apology and requested to be reinstated as the Minister for Education.
The People’s Alliance Executive Council has today stated that they fully support the Prime Minister’s decision to dismiss Aseri Radrodro as Minister of Education, and they have also said that a written complaint received on the alleged conduct of a Senior Honourable Member be referred to the Legal and National Disciplinary Sub-Committee as provided for under Section 27.5 of the People’s Alliance Party Constitution.
The party’s General Secretary and CEO, Usaia Peter Waqatairewa has released the statement after their Executive Council meeting.
The party also says that it conforms its full support of Sitiveni Rabuka as Prime Minister of Fiji and Head of the Coalition Government.
The name of the Senior Honourable Member has not been revealed as yet.
We have sent questions to Rabuka and Waqatairewa.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Communications, Manoa Kamikamica says the People’s Alliance Executive Council meeting is confidential when asked about the written complaint received on the alleged conduct of a Senior Honourable Member of the party.
Kamikamica says the press release will probably be the extent in which he can talk about but the first item is about the support for the Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka and the second item is about the disciplinary committee hearing the complaint which is confidential to the party.
Kamikamica says whatever is in the press release will be about the official position of their statement.
He says when there is a complaint, that is only one side of the story and the complaint can be useless and have no basis.
He further says they need to respect both parties and that is why they have taken the approach and the public does not need to know everything.
The Deputy Prime Minister says when everything is finalised, the Prime Minister will make the announcement.
He says right now they need to follow due process and they need to be careful on how to deal with such issues.
Dismissed Minister of Education, Aseri Radrodro has made a public apology for all the drama caused and has asked the Prime Minister if his termination can be rescinded, and for it to be noted that this is a matter of miscommunication of the various parties involved.
Radrodro says this matter provides a good lesson for us moving forward to dialogue as leaders in good faith and to remove any personal bias that may cloud our good judgement, for our people certainly deserve better.
SODELPA and its MP Aseri Radrodro have written to the Prime Minister’s Office asking for the reinstatement of Radrodro as the Minister for Education.
The letter also consists of the correspondence in regards to the appointment of the Fiji National University Council.
Radrodro says he acted on the advice of the Solicitor General and not on the advice of the Prime Minister.
While speaking to the media at the SODELPA Headquarters in Suva, Radrodro says the advice from the Solicitor General's office is mandated by law, and the appointment of the FNU Council is done according to the FNU Act.
Radrodro also claims during the press conference that there were communication issues, which resulted in the Prime Minister not knowing what had truly transpired. The former Minister for Education says the FNU Council that was removed was reinstated on 14th September 2023.
Meanwhile, SODELPA General Secretary Viliame Takayawa says from the messages they received, it is evident that the Prime Minister has lost control of his office, and the correspondence sent to his office has neither been acknowledged nor responded to.
He says after the SODELPA statement on Friday, they received an overwhelming number of calls and messages from high-profile People’s Alliance supporters, public servants, and MPs who wish to stay anonymous supporting their call for the PM to step down.
Takayawa says SODELPA has written several letters to the PM over the last six months with no response, and just yesterday morning, the party received its only second correspondence in the last 13 months regarding Aseri Radrodro’s dismissal statement by the PM that was aired via the Government facebook page.
He adds when the Office of the Prime Minister made the call to reshuffle the cabinet, due process was not followed and a similar situation occurred again.
The SODELPA General Secretary says this type of leadership is unsuitable and eventually not only SODELPA but the public will have to say enough is enough.
Takayawa says the People’s Alliance management board and the MPs need to take control of the situation before further damage is caused by the Prime Minister’s Office and there is no point in airing his discontent behind closed doors when he can see what is unfolding in front of his eyes.
He adds Fiji deserves a stable united government, and SODELPA has been committed to this from day 1 in accordance with the Coalition Agreement.
He further adds the Prime Minister has been manipulating the agreement in its favour when it suits them, and this is not suitable.
He also stressed that their support for the coalition government is intact.
The SODELPA Management Board will meet this Friday at 10am at the Southern Cross Hotel to deliberate on the coalition agreement and the dismissal of Radrodro.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stresses to the public that he stands by his decision to dismiss the Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro from cabinet.
Rabuka says in November last year, he requested SODELPA Leader, Viliame Gavoka to raise the Prime Minister's concern and disappointment with the SODELPA Management Board regarding the failure of Radrodro to comply with the Fiji National University Act in removing the Chairperson and three members of the FNU Council in May 2023 and Radrodro’s failure to comply with legal advice from the Solicitor General for reinstatement of the Chairperson and three members of the FNU Council. Rabuka says he urged Gavoka to urge the SODELPA Management Board to consider taking action to ensure the unlawful decisions made by Radrodro, are rescinded, as it could invite serious legal consequences for the Coalition Government.
The Prime Minister stresses that Radrodro's dismissal is effective from yesterday and he may no longer exercise the powers and privileges of the Minister for Education while Gavoka assumes the Education portfolio as of yesterday.
He also reminded SODELPA that they must also ensure that the working committee does not exceed its mandate in purporting to exercise the powers of the management board as set out in its party constitution. He also urges all parties involved to conduct themselves with respect for due process and the rule of law as the progress of our great nation depends on their collective commitment to the rule of law and democratic values enshrined in the constitution.
He stresses that after careful consideration of all relevant factors, he will not change his stand regarding Radrodro's dismissal.
While delivering a live address, Rabuka says regarding the dispatch of letters to Radrodro on Friday, he also wants to clarify that his public statement on the dismissal was published only after confirmation of the dispatch of letters to Radrodro, the President and the Speaker of the Parliament on Friday. He says the Constitution guides his actions, and he remains committed to upholding its principles.
The Prime Minister says his decision was not made lightly and was taken only after due process had been followed.
Rabuka reveals that he had written three letters to Radrodro since September 2023 and held discussions with Deputy Prime Minister and Party Leader of SODELPA Viliame Gavoka in October and then he wrote to Gavoka in early November with a follow up of two letters to Radrodro in December last year.
Rabuka further says he has been advised by Deputy Prime Minister, Manoa Kamikamica that when he was the Acting Prime Minister in May 2023, he requested the Solicitor General to provide him a copy of the legal opinion with regards to the termination of the FNU Chair and Council Members.
Rabuka said Radrodro had been advised to comply with the legal advice from the Solicitor General and he assured the Acting Prime Minister that he would address the issue accordingly. Rabuka says he does not have a direct conduit to SODELPA or its Management Board and the channel of communication is through the Deputy Prime Minister and the SODELPA Party and Parliamentary Leader, Viliame Gavoka.
He also acknowledged the public's understanding and trust that they will navigate these challenges in the best interests of the people of Fiji.
Meanwhile, Rabuka had made it clear on fijivillage Straight Talk With Vijay Narayan in October last year that he would remove Radrodro from cabinet if he continued to refuse to follow his directives.
SODELPA Party and its MP Aseri Radrodro have written to the Prime Minister’s Office asking for the reinstatement of Radrodro as the Minister for Education.
The letter also consists of the correspondence in regards to the appointment of the Fiji National University Council.
Radrodro says he acted on the advice of the Solicitor General and not on the advice of the Prime Minister.
While speaking to the media at the SODELPA Headquarters in Suva, Radrodro says the advice from the Solicitor General's office is mandated by law, and the appointment of the FNU Council is done according to the FNU Act.
Radrodro also claims during the press conference that there were communication issues, which resulted in the Prime Minister not knowing what had truly transpired.
The former Minister for Education says the FNU Council that was removed was reinstated on 14th September 2023.
Meanwhile, SODELPA General Secretary Viliame Takayawa says from the messages they received, it is evident that the Prime Minister has lost control of his office, and the correspondence sent to his office has neither been acknowledged nor responded to.
He says after the SODELPA statement on Friday, they received an overwhelming number of calls and messages from high-profile People’s Alliance supporters, public servants, and MPs who wish to stay anonymous supporting their call for the PM to step down.
Takayawa says SODELPA has written several letters to the PM over the last six months with no response, and just this morning, the party received its only second correspondence in the last 13 months regarding Aseri Radrodro’s dismissal statement by the PM that was aired via the Government facebook page.
He adds when the Office of the Prime Minister made the call to reshuffle the cabinet, due process was not followed and a similar situation occurred again.
The SODELPA General Secretary says this type of leadership is unsuitable and eventually not only SODELPA but the public will have to say enough is enough.
Takayawa says the People’s Alliance management board and the MPs need to take control of the situation before further damage is caused by the Prime Minister’s Office and there is no point in airing his discontent behind closed doors when he can see what is unfolding in front of his eyes.
He adds Fiji deserves a stable united government, and SODELPA has been committed to this from day 1 in accordance with the Coalition Agreement.
He further adds the Prime Minister has been manipulating the agreement in its favour when it suits them, and this is not suitable.
He also stressed that their support for the coalition government is intact.
The SODELPA Management Board will meet this Friday at 10am at the Southern Cross Hotel to deliberate on the coalition agreement and the dismissal of Radrodro.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stresses to the public that he stands by his decision to dismiss the Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro from cabinet.
Rabuka says in November last year, he requested SODELPA Leader, Viliame Gavoka to raise the Prime Minister's concern and disappointment with the SODELPA Management Board regarding the failure of Radrodro to comply with the Fiji National University Act in removing the Chairperson and three members of the FNU Council in May 2023 and Radrodro’s failure to comply with legal advice from the Solicitor General for reinstatement of the Chairperson and three members of the FNU Council.
Rabuka says he urged Gavoka to urge the SODELPA Management Board to consider taking action to ensure the unlawful decisions made by Radrodro, are rescinded, as it could invite serious legal consequences for the Coalition Government.
The Prime Minister stresses that Radrodro's dismissal is effective from today and he may no longer exercise the powers and privileges of the Minister for Education while Gavoka assumes the Education portfolio as of today.
He also reminded SODELPA that they must also ensure that the working committee does not exceed its mandate in purporting to exercise the powers of the management board as set out in its party constitution.
He also urges all parties involved to conduct themselves with respect for due process and the rule of law as the progress of our great nation depends on their collective commitment to the rule of law and democratic values enshrined in the constitution.
He stresses that after careful consideration of all relevant factors, he will not change his stand regarding Radrodro's dismissal.
While delivering a live address, Rabuka says regarding the dispatch of letters to Radrodro on Friday, he also wants to clarify that his public statement on the dismissal was published only after confirmation of the dispatch of letters to Radrodro, the President and the Speaker of the Parliament on Friday.
He says the Constitution guides his actions, and he remains committed to upholding its principles.
The Prime Minister says his decision was not made lightly and was taken only after due process had been followed.
Rabuka reveals that he had written three letters to Radrodro since September 2023 and held discussions with Deputy Prime Minister and Party Leader of SODELPA Viliame Gavoka in October and then he wrote to Gavoka in early November with a follow up of two letters to Radrodro in December last year.
Rabuka further says he has been advised by Deputy Prime Minister, Manoa Kamikamica that when he was the Acting Prime Minister in May 2023, he requested the Solicitor General to provide him a copy of the legal opinion with regards to the termination of the FNU Chair and Council Members.
Rabuka said Radrodro had been advised to comply with the legal advice from the Solicitor General and he assured the Acting Prime Minister that he would address the issue accordingly. Rabuka says he does not have a direct conduit to SODELPA or its Management Board and the channel of communication is through the Deputy Prime Minister and the SODELPA Party and Parliamentary Leader, Viliame Gavoka.
He also acknowledged the public's understanding and trust that they will navigate these challenges in the best interests of the people of Fiji.
Meanwhile, Rabuka had made it clear on fijivillage Straight Talk With Vijay Narayan in October last year that he would remove Radrodro from cabinet if he continued to refuse to follow his directives.
SODELPA General Secretary, Viliame Takayawa Junior states that SODELPA MP, Aseri Radrodro has refused to adhere to the Prime Minister’s directive to reinstate Doctor Kesaia Seniloli as the Fiji National University Council Chairperson, based on what the party stands for.
Although Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka stresses that the Solicitor General has advised that Radrodro should reappoint the FNU council members he removed last year, Takayawa says the simple reason is that while they respect the prerogative to instruct the cabinet to carry out his directive as the Prime Minister, unfortunately, Radrodro is duty bound and has to follow the law.
He says the FNU Council initially drew the attention of the Prime Minister to the four council members who were terminated earlier because of the appointment that was done illegally.
Radrodro says it is understandable that the Prime Minister has the prerogative to make the decision and no one is arguing about that, but the party is reminding Rabuka that they also have the Coalition Agreement where section 5 of the agreement states that consultation is warranted for anything that is decided by the Coalition.
Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka stresses to the public that he stands by his decision to dismiss the Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro from the Cabinet.
Rabuka says in November last year, he requested SODELPA Leader, Viliame Gavoka to raise the Prime Minister's concern and disappointment with the SODELPA Management Board regarding the failure of Radrodro to comply with the Fiji National University Act in removing the Chairperson and three members of the FNU Council in May 2023 and Radrodro’s failure to comply with legal advice from the Solicitor General for reinstatement of the Chairperson and three members of the FNU Council.
Rabuka says he urged Gavoka to urge the SODELPA Management Board to consider taking action to ensure the unlawful decisions made by Radrodro, are rescinded, as it could invite serious legal consequences for the Coalition Government.
The Prime Minister stresses that Radrodro's dismissal is effective from today and he may no longer exercise the powers and privileges of the Minister for Education while Gavoka assumes the Education portfolio as of today.
He also reminded SODELPA that they must also ensure that the working committee does not exceed its mandate in purporting to exercise powers of the management board as set out in its party constitution.
He also urges all parties involved to conduct themselves with respect for due process and the rule of law as the progress of our great nation depends on their collective commitment to the rule of law and democratic values enshrined in the constitution.
He stresses that after careful consideration of all relevant factors, he will not change his stand regarding Radrodro's dismissal.
While delivering a live address, Rabuka says regarding the dispatch of letters to Radrodro on Friday, he also wants to clarify that his public statement on the dismissal was published only after confirmation of the dispatch of letters to Radrodro, the President and the Speaker of the Parliament on Friday.
He says the Constitution guides his actions, and he remains committed to upholding its principles.
The Prime Minister says his decision was not made lightly and was taken only after due process had been followed.
Rabuka reveals that he had written three letters to Radrodro since September 2023 and held discussions with Deputy Prime Minister and Party Leader of SODELPA Viliame Gavoka in October and then he wrote to Gavoka in early November with a follow up of two letters to Radrodro in December last year.
Rabuka further says he has been advised by Deputy Prime Minister, Manoa Kamikamica that when he was the Acting Prime Minister in May 2023, he requested the Solicitor General to provide him a copy of the legal opinion with regards to the termination of the FNU Chair and Council Members.
Rabuka said Radrodro had been advised to comply with the legal advice from the Solicitor General and he assured the Acting Prime Minister that he would address the issue accordingly. Rabuka says he does not have a direct conduit to SODELPA or its Management Board and the channel of communication is through the Deputy Prime Minister and the SODELPA Party and Parliamentary Leader, Viliame Gavoka.
He also acknowledged the public's understanding and trust that they will navigate these challenges in the best interests of the people of Fiji.
Meanwhile, Rabuka had made it clear on fijivillage Straight Talk With Vijay Narayan in October last year that he will remove Radrodro from cabinet if he continues to refuse to follow his directives.
Earlier:
My loyalty is to Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka and the dream to rebuild Fiji for future generations.
That is the comment of Deputy Prime Minister, Manoa Kamikamica after revelations that the SODELPA Working Group wants Kamikamica to replace Sitiveni Rabuka as Prime Minister.
Kamikamica has told fijivillage News that no one has approached him, and his answer is they have one Prime Minister and Leader of the People's Coalition and People's Alliance, Sitiveni Rabuka.
He stresses he is loyal to the Prime Minister.
The SODELPA Management Board will discuss the options for Kamikamica to become the Prime Minister of the Coalition Government or SODELPA will open the door for negotiations with the FijiFirst Party.
SODELPA General Secretary, Viliame Takayawa Junior confirms to fijivillage News that these are some of the options that will be discussed in the Management Board meeting next Friday.
Takayawa says they are really concerned about the way Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka is handling the coalition, and one of the examples is that they have received no responses for 13 months regarding the concerns raised by SODELPA.
He says there also have been no regular discussions with the coalition partners.
Takayawa says Rabuka is treating SODELPA like some small time cookies.
The SODELPA board executives have also instructed Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro to remain in his ministry until next Friday for the SODELPA Management Board to hold the meeting and to discuss a few of their resolutions.
Takayawa says as it was like what had happened during the reshuffle of the cabinet last year, Radrodro needs to remain as the Minister for Education until they hold the meeting next Friday.
Takayawa says natural justice is not taking place and it is almost a snap decision to do things without giving a warning or informing the management board that there are some concerns to be looked into.
He says everyone needs to know how the Employment Act works and how actions are being taken.
He further says the party will continue to stand for their ministers and abide by the Fijian constitution.
He adds if this is how the Prime Minister treats a minister then imagine how he can treat any normal person.
Meanwhile Aseri Radrodro says he got a surprise when the letter was released on Friday night by the Prime Minister's Office.
Radrodro says he abides by the SODELPA constitution and whatever the party decides, he will act according to that.
The SODELPA Management Board meeting will be held at the Southern Cross Hotel at 10am next Friday.
Party Leader, Viliame Gavoka is in India.
In a facebook post on Friday night, Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka said Radrodro has been dismissed from Monday for insubordination and disobedience to his directive.
Rabuka has informed President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere and Speaker of Parliament, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu of his decision.
He says with effect from tomorrow, Viliame Gavoka will assume the portfolio as Minister for Education in addition to his responsibilities for Tourism and Civil Aviation.
Takayawa says they only found out about Radrodro's dismissal when it was uploaded on the Fiji Government facebook page.
He says even Radrodro did not know about the dismissal until the post was put up.
Takayawa says if they knew about these insubordination or disobedience issues, they could have helped in resolving the matter.
We have sent questions to Rabuka. He is yet to respond.
The SODELPA Management Board will discuss the options for Deputy Prime Minister, Manoa Kamikamica to become the Prime Minister of the coalition government or SODELPA will open the door for negotiations with the FijiFirst Party.
SODELPA General Secretary, Viliame Takayawa Junior confirms to fijivillage News that these are some of the options that will be discussed in the Management Board meeting next Friday.
Takayawa says they are really concerned about the way Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka is handling the coalition, and one of the examples is that they have received no responses for 13 months regarding the concerns raised by SODELPA.
He says there also have been no regular discussions with the coalition partners.
Takayawa says Rabuka is treating SODELPA like some small time cookies.
The SODELPA board executives have also instructed Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro to remain in his ministry until next Friday for the SODELPA Management Board to hold the meeting and to discuss a few of their resolutions.
Takayawa says as it was like what had happened during the reshuffle of the cabinet last year, Radrodro needs to remain as the Minister for Education until they hold the meeting next Friday. Takayawa says natural justice is not taking place and it is almost a snap decision to do things without giving a warning or informing the management board that there are some concerns to be looked into.
He says everyone needs to know how the Employment Act works and how actions are being taken.
He further says the party will continue to stand for their ministers and abide by the Fijian constitution.
He adds if this is how the Prime Minister treats a minister then imagine how he can treat any normal person.
Meanwhile Aseri Radrodro says he got a surprise when the letter was released last night by the Prime Minister's Office.
Radrodro says he abides by the SODELPA constitution and whatever the party decides, he will act according to that.
The SODELPA Management Board meeting will be held at the Southern Cross Hotel at 10am next Friday.
Party Leader, Viliame Gavoka is in India.
In a facebook post last night, Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka said Radrodro has been dismissed from Monday for insubordination and disobedience to his directive.
Rabuka has informed President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere and Speaker of Parliament, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu of his decision.
He says with effect from Monday, Viliame Gavoka will assume the portfolio as Minister for Education in addition to his responsibilities for Tourism and Civil Aviation.
Takayawa says they only found out about Radrodro's dismissal when it was uploaded on the Fiji Government facebook page.
He says even Radrodro did not know about the dismissal until the post was put up.
Takayawa says if they knew about these insubordination or disobedience issues, they could have helped in resolving the matter.
We have sent questions to Rabuka and Kamikamica. They are yet to respond.
The SODELPA Board executives have instructed Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro to remain in his ministry until next Friday for the SODELPA Management Board to hold a meeting and to discuss a few of their resolutions.
While speaking to the media after their executive committee meeting, General Secretary, Viliame Takayawa says as it was like what had happened during the reshuffle of the cabinet last year, Radrodro needs to remain as the Minister for Education until they hold the meeting next Friday.
Takayawa says natural justice is not taking place and it is almost a snap decision to do things without giving a warning or informing the management board that there are some concerns to be looked into.
He says everyone needs to know how the Employment Act works and how actions are being taken.
He further says the party will continue to stand for their ministers and abide by the Fijian constitution.
He adds if this is how the Prime Minister treats a minister then imagine how he can treat any normal person.
Meanwhile Aseri Radrodro says he got a surprise when the letter was released last night by the Prime Minister's Office.
Radrodro says he abides by the SODELPA constitution and whatever the party decides, he will act according to that.
The SODELPA Management Board meeting will be held at the Southern Cross Hotel at 10am next Friday.
Earlier:
SODELPA executives are currently meeting at their headquarters at McGregor Road, Suva after the dismissal of SODELPA MP, Aseri Radrodro as a cabinet minister last night.
Some of the executives attending are the President of the party, Ratu Manoa Roragaca, Vice President, Filimoni Soqeta, Roko Avenito Kolikata, General Secretary, Viliame Takayawa, Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Ifereimi Vasu, Aseri Radrodro and a few other party members.
Party Leader, Viliame Gavoka is in India.
In a facebook post last night, Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka said Radrodro has been dismissed from Monday for insubordination and disobedience to his directive.
Rabuka has informed President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere and Speaker of Parliament, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu of his decision.
He says with effect from Monday, Viliame Gavoka will assume the portfolio as Minister for Education in addition to his responsibilities for Tourism and Civil Aviation.
SODELPA General Secretary, Viliame Takayawa Junior says they only found out about Radrodro's dismissal when it was uploaded on the Fiji Government facebook page.
He says even Radrodro did not know about the dismissal until the post was put up.
Takayawa says they have been trying to get meetings and get clarifications with the other coalition partners for over 5 months.
He says if they knew about these insubordination or disobedience issues, they could have helped in resolving the matter.
We are currently trying to speak to Radrodro.
Stay with us for developments.
Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro has been dismissed from cabinet.
Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka says Radrodro has been dismissed from Monday for insubordination and disobedience to his directive.
Rabuka has informed President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere and Speaker of Parliament, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu of his decision.
He says with effect from Monday, SODELPA Leader, Viliame Gavoka will assume the portfolio as Minister for Education in addition to his responsibilities for Tourism and Civil Aviation.
SODELPA General Secretary, Viliame Takayawa Junior says they only found out about Radrodro's dismissal when it was uploaded on the Fiji Government facebook page.
He says even Radrodro did not know about the dismissal until the post was put up.
Takayawa says they have been trying to get meetings and get clarifications with the other coalition partners for over 5 months.
He says if they knew about these insubordination or disobedience issues, they could have helped in resolving the matter.
SODELPA executives will meet today, and their management board will meet next Friday.
We are currently trying to speak to Radrodro.
Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations
