Two officers linked to Charlie Charters case no longer with FICAC

The two FICAC officers who allegedly divulged information that Fijian-British national Charlie Charters posted on social media about FICAC are no longer officers of the Commission.

It is alleged that the two officers disclosed information relating to Acting Commissioner Lavi Rokoika's conduct, her relationship with Sports Council CEO Gilbert Vakalalabure, the presence of her husband and lawyer, Tevita Vakalalabure at FICAC offices, and the appointment of her niece to FICAC.

While confirming this, FICAC says as there is a related matter presently before the court, they will not comment on the evidence, the identity of any alleged source, the circumstances of any alleged disclosure, or any matter that may properly arise in those proceedings.

While also responding to questions regarding their whistleblower policy, FICAC says they support lawful reporting of suspected corruption and members of the public and officers with genuine information are encouraged to use the appropriate reporting channels available to them.

They say however, it is important to distinguish lawful reporting from unauthorised disclosure of official or confidential information.

FICAC says a claim of whistleblowing does not, by itself, authorise a person to disclose official information outside the law or outside the proper process.

FICAC says those rights are important, but they are not absolute.