Government will not sack civil servants “willy-nilly”, even if they were favoured by the FijiFirst government.

Responding to concerns that remnants of the previous government continue to wield power in the government system, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka explained the process of governance was bound by legal and ethical guidelines that prevented arbitrary decisions.

“There are rules and regulations and the considerations for ‘natural justice’ that prevent bosses from just sacking people ‘willy-nilly’ just because we didn’t appoint them, or because they were pet boys and girls of the FFP government,” Mr Rabuka said.

He further emphasised that while it was important to acknowledge the past, his leadership was focused firmly on the future of Fiji.

“I don’t want to trip by looking back. I must discipline myself to be future-looking in all I do and try and be two steps ahead of all decisions I make,” Mr Rabuka added.

The Prime Minister also shared insights into his leadership style, particularly the moments when standing alone was necessary in decision-making.

“I stand alone only at the moment of making a decision. When I have to make sure that the consequences are going to be on me alone and I cannot and should not try and blame someone who was not a part of the thought process that led to my decision,” Mr Rabuka said.