A 50-year-old man, Samuela Tuibeqa, has been charged by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) with one count of Obtaining a Financial Advantage. Tuibeqa, who previously worked for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, appeared in Suva Magistrates Court on Friday regarding these charges.
The allegations suggest that between August 1, 2019, and December 31, 2019, while employed at the Ministry, Tuibeqa fraudulently claimed payments including overtime, meal allowances, and country allowances that he did not qualify for, amounting to a total of $7,355.86.
At the hearing, FICAC Junior State Counsel Sameea Nisa informed Resident Magistrate Yogesh Prasad that preliminary disclosures had been completed. Tuibeqa’s two sureties were presented to the court, and while the prosecution did not oppose bail, they requested that specific conditions be imposed.
Magistrate Prasad issued a Stop Departure Order for Tuibeqa, which takes effect immediately. He is prohibited from re-offending or contacting prosecution witnesses, must maintain his current residency, and is required to report monthly to FICAC Headquarters in Suva. Additionally, Tuibeqa was instructed to seek Legal Aid and secure representation for his next court appearance.
The hearing has been rescheduled for December 13 for further mention.
This case underscores the vigilance of FICAC in curbing corruption within public services and highlights the importance of accountability in government roles. The judicial process aims to uphold integrity by ensuring that individuals face consequences for any fraudulent actions. As the case progresses, it serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with public service roles and the necessity for ethical conduct in all positions of authority.
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