Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has issued a stern warning to Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry and his son, Rajendra Chaudhry, urging them to stop posting unverified and allegedly racist content on social media.
According to a report in FBC, Rabuka condemned the recent alleged remarks made by Rajendra Chaudhry — who resides overseas — saying they unfairly targeted the iTaukei community and individuals, sparking widespread public backlash. He called on both father and son to refrain from allegedly fuelling racial hatred, stressing that such behaviour undermines national unity.
“Fiji is going through a sensitive healing process,” Rabuka said, referencing the ongoing work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
“All Fijians, especially political figures, must contribute responsibly to public discourse.”
The Prime Minister acknowledged that Mahendra Chaudhry may have experienced racism in the past but insisted that it does not justify making broad, divisive statements. Citing a recent example, Rabuka said Chaudhry’s comments on scholarship distribution lacked proper analysis.
“He could have had a better look at the allocation numbers, applicant data, and costs — it would have helped him form a more objective view.”
The clash between the two political leaders has intensified in recent months.
In March 2025, Chaudhry labelled Rabuka “unfit to lead” following the Prime Minister’s backflip on reinstating former Minister Lynda Tabuya, who had been demoted after a private video of her dancing naked surfaced. Despite earlier suggesting she would make an ideal minister for information after her traditional apology, Rabuka later ruled out her return to Cabinet.
“Rabuka keeps changing his mind without offering any real explanation,” Chaudhry said in an interview with RNZ Pacific.
“This kind of inconsistency raises serious questions about his ability to govern.”
The Labour leader further criticised Rabuka’s international travel, accusing him of neglecting domestic issues like rising crime and police misconduct.
“Instead of peddling his ‘Ocean of Peace’ abroad at $3,000 per day, he should focus on bringing peace at home.”
He also highlighted the ongoing failure to appoint a permanent Police Commissioner, describing the force as “adrift” and the Prime Minister’s frequent travel as “a fortune in tax-free allowances.”
In response, Rabuka reaffirmed his commitment to accountability during a recent appearance on Straight Talk with Vijay Narayan, saying underperforming ministers will be removed regardless of status.
“We’ve set clear key performance indicators. Ministers know what is expected.”
Support our Journalism
No-nonsense journalism. No paywalls. Whether you’re in Australia, the UK, Canada, the USA, or India, you can support The Australia Today by taking a paid subscription via Patreon or donating via PayPal — and help keep honest, fearless journalism alive.
