26 Apr 2004

Former Fiji Prime Minister cautions against changing Presidential Pension Act

4:16 pm on 26 April 2004

The former Fiji prime minister and SVT party leader, Sitiveni Rabuka, has cautioned against personalising a pension for the widow of the longtime former prime minister and former president, Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara.

The opposition leader, Mick Beddoes, says he will make a call in parliament today for changes to the law so that Adi Lady Lala can receive a full presidential pensions including perks such as a ministerial style car and driver.

But Mr Rabuka has told the Fiji Times Adi Lady Lala will be adequately catered for and receive 60 per cent of Ratu Mara's pension.

He says any parliamentary motion that is personalised is not good.

The Chief Executive of the Prime Minister's Office, Jioji Kotobalavu, says its important for parliament to consider the implications of amending the Presidential Pensions Act.