Inquiry into MFAT Leaks: ‘A Witch hunt’

Press Release: Michelle Wanwimolruk

A former diplomat says that the Ombudsman’s Report about the Rebstock MFAT leaks inquiry shows that Derek Leask and Nigel Fyfe were unjustly singled out during what was effectively a ‘witch hunt’. The Ombudsman has made it clear that the State Services Commission acted unfairly, unjustly and unreasonably. New Zealanders should question why this serious abuse of power occurred.

‘I recall there was an atmosphere of anxiety. Many of my colleagues called Paula Rebstock’s inquiry a ‘witch hunt’. It seemed like the State Services Commission were unfairly looking for and punishing people – in order to set an example’ says Michelle Wanwimolruk.

‘There was certainly a ‘chilling effect’. The Rebstock inquiry and report made everyone in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade much more cautious about open and robust debate. People saw what happened to Leask and Fyfe, and their families.’

‘We should all be concerned about our democratic conventions. Civil servants are meant to provide free and frank advice. When government officials are singled out, unfairly accused and publicly shamed – all of New Zealand should be concerned', says Michelle.

‘It is great to see that the Ombudsman’s Report has set the record straight and cleared Derek Leask’s good name. Both Derek Leask and Nigel Fyfe are men of great integrity, who acted in the interests of New Zealand throughout their careers.'

'Derek Leask has shouldered great personal and financial costs over the last four years due to the State Services Commission’s unjust and unreasonable actions - actions that lacked integrity. Leask deserves to be compensated', says Michelle

ENDS

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