Former National Fire Authority (NFA) Board Chair John O’Connor has entered a plea of “Not Guilty” to corruption charges brought against him by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). In a court appearance at the Suva Magistrates Court, he was joined by Daniel Whippy, the Managing Director of Carpenters Fiji, who also pleaded “Not Guilty” to related charges.

O’Connor is accused of one count of Abuse of Office. The indictment alleges that between January 1 and September 28, 2018, he improperly instructed NFA officers to alter findings in a fire investigation report concerning a fire that occurred on April 8, 2018, at the MH Warehouse in Walu Bay. It is claimed that these actions undermined the rights of the NFA while benefiting O’Connor personally.

Whippy faces a charge of Counseling for the Omission of Offense, accused of advising O’Connor to amend the investigation report’s findings. During the proceedings, Whippy’s attorney revealed that he requires knee surgery and sought permission to travel for medical treatment from February 2 to March 1, 2025. The FICAC prosecutor did not oppose the travel request, enabling the court to lift a Stop Departure Order for that period.

A follow-up hearing is scheduled for March 3, 2025, to discuss the next steps in the case. This situation underscores the vital need for accountability and transparency in public governance in Fiji. As the judicial process unfolds, it is hoped that it will enhance public trust in leadership and reinforce the importance of ethical conduct within both the public and private sectors. The engagement of judicial mechanisms in addressing such allegations offers a pathway towards fostering integrity in governance, promoting confidence among citizens regarding their leaders.