The Parliamentary Opposition has condemned the Government’s decision to withdraw a motion for debate on the Consolidated Review Report of the 2018–2019, 2019–2020, and 2020–2021 Fiji Higher Education Commission (FHEC) Annual Reports, calling it an act of “concealment” and a “blow to transparency.”

In a statement issued from the Opposition Chambers, the party expressed “deep concern” over the sudden move, which they say prevents Parliament from addressing serious accountability issues highlighted in the report.

“The sudden withdrawal raises serious questions about transparency and accountability,” the statement said.

“One of the key recommendations in paragraph 4.12 calls for a Commission of Inquiry to investigate how funds were allocated to Pacific Polytech and Service Pro Institute.”

“The Social Affairs Committee approved the report in a bipartisan manner, and its tabling had been cleared by the Business Committee,” the statement continued.

“It now appears that there was pressure on the Chair of the Standing Committee on Social Affairs to withdraw this report.”

The Opposition claims the withdrawal was politically motivated and aimed at protecting certain individuals who may be implicated if a Commission of Inquiry were established.

“The real reason the motion was withdrawn is because the Government is attempting to shield individuals who may be implicated. Rather than allowing the truth to come to light through parliamentary debate and independent investigation, the Government has chosen to suppress the report and evade scrutiny.”

Calling the withdrawal “a betrayal of public trust,” the Opposition insisted that the people of Fiji “deserve to know the full circumstances surrounding the allocation of public funds to non-accredited institutions.”

“These are taxpayer funds and the public has every right to demand answers.”