Dr Jalesi Nakarawa has been removed as the Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner after a Tribunal found that allegations against him of nepotism and abuse of office to be substantiated.
The Commission says the Office of the President subsequently issued a letter terminating Dr Nakarawa’s appointment on 26th February 2026.
They say allegations included biased recruitment of family members (nepotism), abuse of office, and improper handling of funds.
They add that in April 2025, the COC convened a Tribunal to investigate the complaints against Dr Nakarawa, advise the President on their findings, and recommend whether Dr Nakarawa should remain in his role as Commissioner.
It says the Tribunal, comprised three High Court Judges, conducted a thorough and independent inquiry where more than 40 witnesses were called and numerous documents presented.
The Commission says Dr Nakarawa was afforded the opportunity to respond to the allegations and was represented by legal counsel, submitting evidence in his defence.
They say the first set of complaints concerned the recruitment of Dr Nakarawa’s wife and stepsons, without adherence to established procedures.
It further says that Dr Nakarawa was alleged to have advertised a position tailored to his wife's qualifications, disregarding medical expert advice and contrary to a policy decision by the Minister for Justice and Cabinet on established positions based on a Job Evaluation Exercise.
It adds that the second group of complaints pertained to abuse of office, included the unfair treatment of staff within the Fiji Corrections Service, such as demotions or terminations without adequate notice or the chance to respond.
The Commission further adds that the third set of complaints alleged that Dr Nakarawa had approved funds for personal use.
They say after its investigation, they concluded that Dr Nakarawa's actions reflected poor leadership and amounted to misconduct, undermining public confidence in the Fiji Corrections Service and brought disrepute to the institution.
It says in its report to the President, the Tribunal recommended Dr Nakarawa’s removal from his role as the Commissioner for Corrections.
The Commission says there is now a vacancy for the substantive Commissioner’s role, with Auta Moceisuva currently serving as Acting Commissioner.
