The Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre has criticised the Government’s response to allegations of sexual harassment linked to the appointment of Pita Wise as Permanent Secretary for Public Enterprise.

FWCC Coordinator Shamima Ali says the Public Service Commission’s explanation that the complaint had been withdrawn, together with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s comment that Wise was given time to “cool off”, downplays the seriousness of the allegation.

Ali says the withdrawal of a complaint should not prevent the PSC from examining the matter, noting that women may withdraw complaints because of fear of retaliation, intimidation, victim-blaming, concerns about their careers, or a lack of confidence in existing systems.

She says the Government’s National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against All Women and Girls includes commitments to address sexual harassment and other forms of violence against women.

Ali is calling on the Government to ensure sexual harassment allegations are handled seriously, independently investigated and dealt with transparently.

FWCC is also urging the Prime Minister and Government to reconsider the decision, saying the handling of such allegations can affect public confidence and the message sent to survivors across Fiji.