PM Says Saukuru Travel Approval Did Not Include Wife

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says the official travel approval granted for Youth and Sports Minister Jese Saukuru to visit New Zealand did not include any request for his spouse to accompany him.

In a statement, Rabuka confirmed that a submission was made on 20 January 2025 by the Permanent Secretary for Youth and Sports seeking approval for Saukuru to travel with the Fiji Sports Council Under-20 Rugby Sevens team from 28 January to 5 February. He said the request, which followed an invitation from the Fiji Sports Council, was approved.

However, the Prime Minister stressed that the application made no reference to spousal travel.

Rabuka said while ministers may be accompanied by their spouse on official trips — either at their own cost or when sponsored by a host country — such arrangements must be clearly disclosed in the original submission and are considered on a case-by-case basis.

He added that, following questions raised about the trip and related matters under the Fiji Sports Council, he has called Saukuru in for a one-on-one meeting.

The Prime Minister also reiterated that the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption operates independently under the Constitution and is not subject to government direction or control.