Controversy Erupts Over Walesi Investigation in Fiji Parliament

Opposition Member of Parliament Faiyaz Koya expressed concerns over the recent presentation of the Walesi PTE Limited Investigation Report by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Communication Manoa Kamikamica in Parliament. Koya argued that it was premature for Kamikamica to present the report, especially since the Government planned to refer the findings to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).

In an interview, Koya highlighted that the Opposition was unable to respond to Kamikamica’s Ministerial Statement because they did not have access to the report prior to its presentation. He criticized the Government for treating the serious matter as a political issue rather than addressing it through the appropriate investigative channels.

Koya stated that if the Government had the intention of filing its findings with FICAC, it would have been more prudent not to make a public statement regarding the report in Parliament. He emphasized the unfairness of discussing content that the Opposition had not reviewed, suggesting that Kamikamica’s actions raised questions about the intent behind sharing the report.

Despite these concerns, it was confirmed later that the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption received the file from Kamikamica. FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali announced the establishment of a special task force to investigate the situation further, triggered by a Special Audit Report from the Office of Auditor General that revealed the Government allocated $123.6 million for the Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) Project and the operations of Walesi PTE LTD over the period from 2015 to 2022.

This development signals an ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability in governance, as investigative bodies work to unearth the details surrounding financial disbursements. It is an opportunity for the Government and the relevant authorities to demonstrate their resolve in addressing potential discrepancies and restoring public confidence.

Summary: Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya criticized the Deputy Prime Minister for presenting the Walesi report before the Opposition had access to it, questioning the motivations behind treating it as a political issue. However, FICAC has now confirmed receipt of the report and is forming a special task force for further investigation, showing a commitment to accountability.