Minister Clarifies Allegations Made by Niko Nawaikula on the Grace Roads Passport Issue

The Minister for Defence and Veteran's Affairs, Hon. Pio Tikoduadua, has clarified the ongoing investigation into the alleged unauthorised issuance of passports to minors associated with the Grace Road Group.

He addressed misconceptions raised by former SODELPA Member of Parliament, Niko Nawaikula, emphasizing the importance of due process and accountability.

Hon. Tikoduadua stated that the investigation is not about citizenship or the interpretation of the Citizenship of Fiji Act 2009.

Instead, it focuses on whether proper procedures under the Passports Act 2002 were followed.

He highlighted that the legal requirement for written consent from all legal guardians—or a court order in exceptional circumstances—must be adhered to.

“This matter concerns the issuance of passports to minors without proper adherence to legal requirements. To conflate this with citizenship is misleading and irrelevant to the investigation,” the Minister said.

The Minister also raised concerns about allegations of ministerial powers being circumvented in the passport issuance process.

He stressed that the Minister’s authority under the Passports Act 2002 must be upheld to maintain the system’s integrity.

Hon. Tikoduadua further explained his decision to temporarily step aside from his portfolio, emphasizing that it was to ensure transparency and impartiality in the investigation.

He expressed confidence in the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to assess the evidence and pursue the matter independently.

The Minister rejected Mr. Nawaikula's claim that the investigation is "a waste of time," stressing its importance.

“The unauthorised issuance of passports, particularly involving minors, is a serious matter that warrants full scrutiny. Fiji’s laws must be followed without exception, and no organisation is above the law,” he added.

The Minister urged all parties to allow the legal process to take its course and to avoid politicising the issue. He reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting public confidence in Fiji’s institutions, and serving the people with integrity and accountability.

The case remains under review by the ODPP, and further updates are expected following their assessment of the evidence.