Pacific News In Brief For 2 July
Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is leading a delegation on a high-level visit to Australia this week.
The Fiji government said Rabuka will meet with the Fijian diaspora in Canberra and Brisbane and tour some significant Australian institutions and sites that reflect the ties between the two nations.
As part of the visit, discussions would focus on strengthening border and ports capabilities, deepening security cooperation, and reinforcing regional solidarity in support of a safe, stable, and resilient Blue Pacific.
On Tuesday, Rabuka met with Sam Mostyn, governor-general of the Commonwealth of Australia, where they reaffirmed the enduring strength of the renewed and elevated Fiji-Australia Vuvale Partnership.
Rabuka also reiterated Fiji's support for Australia's bid to host COP31.
Vanuatu - information
Vanuatu's Parliament has passed an amendment to the Right to Information (RTI) Act, exempting all decisions made by the Council of Ministers (COM) from public disclosure.
The amendment, introduced during the first ordinary session of Parliament this year, has drawn concern from civil society leaders, media organisations, and transparency advocates.
Vanuatu Daily Post reported a major concern for critics is the delay in releasing the Citizenship Report from the Commission of Inquiry, recently submitted to Justice Minister Job Andy.
A government source warned shielding Cabinet decisions from scrutiny could damage public confidence, adding that when decisions are made behind closed doors, without accountability, it opens the door to abuse of power.
In New Zealand, the Official Information Act allows people to request government documentation, including correspondence.
Samoa - babies
In Samoa, a church leader has called on the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) to only give 1000 tala (US$366.28) to babies whose parents are married - and not to babies born out of wedlock.
Preaching at the HRPP manifesto launch in Savai'i last week, Reverend Tuigamala addressed their proposal to give money to every newborn baby.
He said such promises must be carefully reviewed through a spiritual lens.
HRPP deputy leader Lauofo Fonotoe acknowledged the reverend's comments and confirmed that the party has taken note of his concerns.
Tuigamala also raised concerns about the state of Samoa's prayer buildings, urging for their restoration as a sign of national spiritual alignment.
Fiji - dynamite
Dynamite and a detonator normally used by mining companies have been found on a farm in Sigatoka, Fiji.
The dynamite stick, mining blast cables and detonator were found by a farmer at the weekend.
Police spokesperson, Ana Naisoro, said they were found inside a water tank about 200 metres away from his house.
The scene has been cordoned off and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces have been asked to investigate.
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