Opposition MP Semi Koroilavesau has called on the Prime Minister to replace Attorney-General Siromi Turaga with someone prepared to do the required work.
Responding to the President’s Speech at the Opening of Parliament, Koroilavesau said the Government must ensure that draft laws are deliberated in consultation with relevant stakeholders, particularly through the standing committee processes.
Koroilavesau said this had not been the actions of the Government – We are all aware that the Attorney-General has been making shortcuts by using Standing Order 51 to fast-track bills.
He said this is in total disregard of what the President pleaded, to allow the views of all members of the community to be heard and ensure better outcomes, inclusiveness and foster greater ownership.
“All bills passed in the last term of Parliament did not go through the normal process as alluded to by His Excellency the President. It is ironic that when the Hon AG is challenged, he answers that he is following processes but in fact, he is adjusting the processes to suit his agenda.”
“…Remove the AG and replace him…” he said.
Koroilavesau said on the adherence to the Constitution doctrine on the separation of powers, Turaga gas a lot of influence in the chaotic appointment in the legal fray which is contrary to the condition stipulated.
He said that the former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and the former Attorney-General have suffered greatly in the political persecution, initiated by Turaga and the Government.
“I suggest that the Hon AG stop preaching to us in parliament and practice what Christianity teaches and what Christ had practiced in life. This is the more reason that Hon PM should remove Hon Siromi and put someone that can abide by the constitution,” he added.
In parliament, the Opposition MP has also accused the Government of concentrating its efforts on dismantling all the changes that the FijiFirst Government incorporated in the last eight years.
Koroilavesau said these actions have been a waste of resources and time.
He said right now Fiji needs leadership, stability, peace, and adherence to the rule of law as highlighted by the President in his speech.
He said that Members of Parliament must be subservient to the Constitution as that provides the guidelines for how we should all behave.
“The Government must continue to adhere to the Constitutional doctrine on the separation of powers as a cornerstone of our democracy and the necessity for public servants to perform their duties independently.”
