Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka will take on the Department of Immigration as an added portfolio also assuming a direct responsibility of the Fiji Police Force while investigations continue into the allegations of illegal issuance of Fiji passports to children of those implicated in the Grace Road debacle.
Earlier this month Immigration Minister Pio Tikoduadua offered to step aside to allow a thorough investigation into the issue.
In a statement this evening, the Prime Minister said Tikoduadua will remain as Defence Minister with direct responsibility over the Republic of Fiji Military Forces.
“After careful consideration of the Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration’s offer to temporarily step aside in light of ongoing investigations within the Department of Immigration and in accordance with the powers vested in me under Section 92(3) of the Constitution of the Republic of Fiji, I have decided to reassign the Department of Immigration and the Fiji Police Force to fall under my portfolio responsibilities.”
“Honourable Pio Tikoduadua will continue to serve as the Minister for Defence, with responsibility for the Republic of Fiji Military Forces and Veterans’ Affairs. He will remain supported by Mr Mason Smith, who will continue as the Permanent Secretary for Defence and Veterans Affairs.”
These changes will take effect on Sunday, 1 December 2024.
