Justice Minister Siromi Turaga has voiced concerns regarding the appointment process of Vakaloloma Mocevakaca Nakarawa as a nurse practitioner and acting medical officer within the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS). Turaga stated he was not properly informed about her status or salary in line with the stipulations of the 2013 Constitution, which outlines the responsibilities of the FCS Commissioner.
The Constitution grants the Commissioner significant authority over appointments and staff discipline, but also requires that the Minister agrees on terms and conditions related to employment. Turaga expressed his regret at being informed of Mrs. Nakarawa’s role only after events had unfolded.
Dr. Alisi Vudiniabola, president of the Fiji Nursing Association, emphasized that a nurse practitioner (NP) and a medical officer (MO) serve in distinct capacities and that a nurse practitioner should not be appointed to act as a medical officer due to their differing qualifications.
Vakaloloma Nakarawa was appointed as an NP at FCS in January, coinciding with the termination of a senior medical officer. Critics have raised concerns of nepotism given her relationship with the FCS Commissioner, which has led to further scrutiny of the appointment process.
In light of this incident, concerns surrounding conflict of interest and the integrity of recruitment procedures within governmental roles have been highlighted. Various stakeholders, including the Fiji Medical Association, are calling for transparent investigations to affirm that appointments were based on merit and not influenced by personal relationships.
The ongoing discussions illuminate the necessity for clear regulations that govern employment practices within public institutions. As this situation develops, there is an opportunity for reforms that reinforce equitable and transparent hiring processes, thereby restoring trust within Fiji’s correctional system. The hope is that these challenges will lead to constructive dialogue and improvements in governance that benefit the operational integrity of the FCS.
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