SODELPA General Secretary Issues Public Apology Over Tonga Trade Mission Remarks

Social Democratic Liberal Party General Secretary Viliame Waka Takayawa has issued a formal public apology over his recent public comments concerning the Government’s trade mission to the Kingdom of Tonga, acknowledging that his statements were inappropriate and did not reflect the standards expected of a senior party official.

In a statement released today, Takayawa admitted that his decision to raise concerns publicly rather than through internal coalition mechanisms was a misjudgment. He described his actions as failing to uphold the spirit of collective leadership and the responsibilities expected within the governing Coalition.

“I acknowledge that the statement I made was inappropriate in both tone and medium. It was an error in judgment on my part,” Takayawa said. He added that his remarks did not align with the principles of responsible governance or the collaborative ethos of the Coalition.

Takayawa extended apologies to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, the Government of Fiji, and the people of Fiji for any offence or disruption his remarks may have caused. He also apologized to the official delegation to Tonga, particularly Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica and Tanya Waqanika, for any unintended slight or discredit caused during their official representation.

The General Secretary confirmed that the social media post in question has been removed under the directive of Party Leader Honourable Aseri Radrodro. He pledged to fully cooperate with the Party’s internal processes, including addressing the matter at the next meeting of the Working Committee.

Reaffirming his commitment to the Coalition’s principles, Takayawa expressed hope that his apology would be accepted in the spirit of humility and reconciliation. “It is my sincere hope that this apology will be received in the spirit of humility, responsibility, and reconciliation with which it is offered,” he wrote.

He concluded the statement by extending Mother’s Day wishes to mothers across Fiji.