In a Live address today the PM says the decision to dismiss Radrodro wasn’t made lightly and was taken only after due process was followed.
He also dismissed and made clear that an instruction issued yesterday by the SODELPA Working Committee, that Radrodro stay as Minister until 26th January is in defiance of the powers conferred on the Prime Minister under section 95(3)(a) of the Constitution.
“Hon. Radrodro’s dismissal is effective 22/1/24, and from that date, he may no longer exercise the powers and privileges of the Minister for Education. Hon. Gavoka assumes the Education portfolio as of that date. However, Hon. Radrodro may attend his former office to remove his personal items and Hon. Gavoka may request him for a handover-briefing on his return from official travel,” the PM firmly stated.
“Section 95 of the Constitution is very clear on the powers of the Prime Minister to appoint and dismiss Cabinet Ministers. It is the sole prerogative of the Prime Minister. Therefore, the Employment Relations Act is not relevant at all. However, the principles of natural justice were adhered to and Hon. Radrodro was given every opportunity to explain himself yet failed to respond to correspondence from me on the matter. Furthermore, the SODELPA Party Leader, Hon. DPM Gavoka was fully informed of the action I took on the matter.”
Rabuka outlined that the sacked Education Minister repeatedly defied and failed to respond to the legal advice of the Solicitor General and his own directives that he rescind the unlawful termination of FNU Council members that was done in May.
The PM also discussed Radrodro’s insubordination with SODELPA party leader Bill Gavoka on 30th October last year and wrote to him on 3rd November 2023 to raise his concerns to the SODELPA management board. He further wrote to Radrodro about the matter in December.
The PM wrote to Gavoka last week (15th January) again expressing his disappointment, and informed him that he would dismiss Radrodro.
Radrodro’s dismissal was made on Friday 19th December and announced after letters were transmitted to Radrodro, the President and the Speaker.
