PM clarifies David Roth issue

Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama, who is currently in China, has clarified issues pertaining to David Roth of Fiji Water.

The Prime Minister said that David Roth had been declared a prohibited immigrant under Section 13 of the Immigration Act 2003.

This declaration was based on reliable information and subsequent verification and confirmation by relevant authorities, which showed that David Roth had been acting in a manner prejudicial to good governance and public order by interfering in the domestic affairs and governance of Fiji.

He said this decision does not impact Government’s positive attitude towards overseas investors and the business community.

Bainimarama said government is committed to the security and wellbeing of all investors and business entities in Fiji and will continue to provide an environment that is conducive to profitable investment.

However, the Prime Minister said that non citizens of Fiji, who interfere in the internal affairs of Fiji, breach the conditions of their work permit.

The Prime Minister said that it is unfortunate that David Roth saw it fit to engage in activities outside of his work permit conditions.

The Prime Minister warned that Fiji, like any other sovereign country, will not tolerate any non citizens interfering in its domestic affairs and governance, which is in clear breach of the provisions of the Immigration Act.

The Prime Minister also clarified that former Minister for Defense, National Security and Immigration Ratu Epeli Ganilau acknowledged in his resignation letter that he was unable to fully perform his functions as the responsible Minister.

The Prime Minister affirmed that “Ministers in his government must at all times be prepared to fully discharge the ministerial and statutory responsibilities assigned to them.”

He thanked Ratu Epeli Ganilau for his staunch support for the government since 2006.


Story by: Shalvin Deo
Source: Minfo