Opposition MP Premila Kumar says Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka acted too late in dismissing Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru following allegations linked to the Fiji Sports Council.

Mr Rabuka announced the immediate dismissal of Mr Saukuru, citing the seriousness of allegations relating to the misuse of public office.

The Prime Minister said the decision was made to allow the Fiji Police Force to conduct a full and independent investigation into claims of abuse of office.

“The integrity of public office and the proper management of public resources are fundamental principles that this Government expects all public office holders to uphold at all times,” Mr Rabuka said in a statement.

However, Ms Kumar said the Prime Minister’s decision comes at a time when an independent investigation by the Fiji Sports Council is already underway.

“Prime Minister Rabuka, your action comes rather late. The independent investigation by the Fiji Sports Council which is already underway will reveal the conduct of Minister Jese Saukuru,” Ms Kumar said.

She added that the Prime Minister’s decision to step in and take over the Youth and Sports portfolio appears more like an attempt to contain the situation.

“Stepping in now to take over the Youth and Sports portfolio appears less like leadership and more like damage control,” she said.

Ms Kumar further criticised what she described as a pattern of delayed decision-making by the Prime Minister.

“This pattern of delayed decision-making continues to undermine confidence in your leadership. Strong leadership requires timely action, not last-minute interventions once issues have already escalated,” Ms Kumar said.