FICAC has confirmed that no criminal offence was committed in the appointment of Dr Jalesi Nakarawa’s wife to the position of a Nurse-Practitioner within the Fiji Corrections Service.
FICAC says they have concluded their assessment, and after a thorough review, supporting evidence, and relevant legal provisions, they have determined that no criminal offence was committed in the appointment of Nakarawa’s spouse to the said position.
They say the decision is based on the powers conferred upon the Commissioner of the Fiji Corrections Service under Article 130 (7) of the 2013 Constitution, which grants the Commissioner broad discretion to “appoint persons” to the Corrections Service.
It says in this instance, the position was publicly advertised, and interviews were conducted with potential candidates before the appointment was made.
FICAC adds as such, they find there is insufficient evidence to support the laying of any criminal charge in this matter.
The Commission says nevertheless, while no legal breach has been identified, FICAC notes that the situation underscores the importance of exercising discretion with care—especially in executive and senior leadership roles where public perception is critical.
They say appointments involving close relations, regardless of legality, can be viewed by the public as nepotism.
FICAC says to uphold public confidence and ensure transparency, it is recommended that officeholders in similar situations consider alternative approaches, such as referring such appointment decisions to a higher authority—such as the relevant line Minister—for independent consideration and endorsement.
FICAC remains committed to promoting integrity, transparency, and accountability across all public institutions and encourages public officials to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct.
Dr Nakarawa was suspended by the Constitutional Offices Commission on the 29th of last month following several allegations against him that warrant an investigation.
Meanwhile, Dr Nakarawa is raising a concern as to why his wife’s contract has been terminated after charges against him have been cleared by FICAC.
Dr Nakarawa posted on his Facebook account that FICAC had issued a formal clearance on Tuesday, confirming that there was no evidence of nepotism or wrongdoing in his wife's appointment to the position of Nurse Practitioner within the Corrections Service.
He says despite the official exoneration, his wife's employment was terminated by the Acting Commissioner, without any new cause, hearing, or due process.
He says this action raises serious concerns about procedural fairness and the motivations driving such decisions.
Dr Nakarawa adds it is deeply troubling that a public servant who has been cleared of all allegations by the appropriate authority can still be subjected to arbitrary dismissal.
Dr Nakarawa says we must ask ourselves if those in public service can be treated in this manner despite being cleared of any wrongdoing, what hope is there for the integrity of our institutions.
He stressed that this is not merely about one individual—it is about the principle of justice, the rule of law, and the protection of our civil servants from political maneuvering or personal vendettas.
We have sent questions to the Fiji Corrections Service about why Dr Nakarawa's wife's contract was terminated.
Questions have also been sent to the Office of the Prime Minister regarding the suspension of Dr Nakarawa.
They are yet to respond.
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