Former National Fire Authority (NFA) Board Chair John O’Connor has pleaded “Not Guilty” to corruption charges brought forth by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). O’Connor made his appearance in the Suva Magistrates Court alongside Daniel Whippy, the Managing Director of Carpenters Fiji, who also entered a “Not Guilty” plea.

O’Connor faces a charge of Abuse of Office, stemming from allegations that he improperly directed NFA officers to alter findings in a fire investigation report related to the April 8, 2018, fire at the MH Warehouse in Walu Bay. This alleged misconduct occurred between January 1 and September 28, 2018, and is claimed to have undermined the rights of the NFA while providing O’Connor with a personal benefit.

Whippy is associated with these charges through a count of Counseling for the Omission of Offense; he is accused of advising O’Connor to amend the report’s findings. During the court session, Whippy’s legal counsel informed the magistrate of his client’s need for knee surgery, seeking permission to travel overseas for medical treatment between February 2 and March 1, 2025. The FICAC prosecutor did not object to this request, resulting in the lifting of a Stop Departure Order for the specified period.

The court has set a follow-up mention for March 3, 2025, to discuss developments in the hearing. This case underscores the critical importance of accountability and transparency in public institutions in Fiji. It is hoped that the unfolding judicial process will restore public trust in governance and reaffirm the commitment to ethical standards within both public and private sectors.

As this situation continues to evolve, it presents an opportunity for reinforcing the integrity of governance in Fiji, highlighting the necessity for transparent practices that hold public officials accountable for their actions.