In a significant display of tradition and political accountability, People’s Alliance Party MP Lynda Tabuya presented her Matanigasau, or traditional apology, to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and members of the Coalition Government Caucus at the Government Office in Parliament yesterday.
A government statement confirmed that Tabuya expressed remorse for actions that had “brought disrepute to Parliament, Government, and the people of Fiji.”
“Much has been said, and the only way to move forward is for one to learn from one’s mistakes and continue to contribute in what one can offer to the people of Fiji,” Tabuya acknowledged in her formal apology.
The Matanigasau was delivered on Tabuya’s behalf by Ratu Apakuki Nanovo, a Turaga ni Vanua o Nacolase, Tavuki. Representing the Chiefs of Kadavu, Nanovo conveyed their collective regret, stating,
“We wish to apologise on behalf of a daughter of Kadavu who has wronged the Government.”
The apology extended beyond Kadavu, encompassing the Tovata and Burebasaga Confederacies, as they collectively acknowledged that “a daughter of their Vanua had embarrassed the Government.”
Prime Minister Rabuka delegated Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica to receive the Matanigasau on behalf of the Government, underscoring the seriousness of the occasion.
Following the ceremony, Rabuka emphasised the importance of integrity in public office.
“It is important to come together for the common good, to serve the best interest of the people, and at the same time, maintain the integrity of the office one holds.”
Rabuka reminded the Caucus that ministers and assistant ministers take a solemn oath to uphold the honour, integrity, and dignity of their positions, an undertaking witnessed by the nation and administered by the President and Head of State.
“This promise should not be taken lightly.”
Tabuya, in later remarks in Parliament, reflected on the nature of leadership, saying,
“People do not want perfect or smart leaders; they want resilient leaders who can withstand challenges, navigate crises, and keep going.”
Her statement also highlighted ongoing issues of gender equality, workplace representation, and violence against women. She urged parliamentarians and stakeholders to take stronger action, drawing on her tenure as Minister for Women, during which she introduced key legislation such as the Child Care and Protection Act 2024 and the Child Justice Act 2024.
Tabuya affirmed her commitment to public service despite past missteps. Speaking in Parliament, the former minister admitted that as a human being she has fallen short, stumbled in the face of criticism, and felt the sting of personal attacks, yet one thing remains certain that is the calling to serve, even if it means facing humiliation or carrying heavy burdens.
Her remarks signalled a continued role in Fiji’s political landscape, as she recognised the courage of independent MPs who joined the Government and framed the Coalition’s transformation as a “government of national unity.”
Tabuya also took the opportunity to commend her successor, Minister Sashi Kiran, for continuing the work on gender equality and social protection. Marking International Women’s Day, she reiterated that while progress had been made, much remained to be done.
Tabuya’s apology comes after her dismissal as Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection in December 2024 following the online circulation of an explicit private video. She stated the video was intended for her husband and called its release a criminal invasion of privacy. Tabuya is pursuing legal action against two individuals, vowing to hold them accountable.
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