The defense attorneys representing Daniel Whippy, the Managing Director of Carpenters Fiji, and John O’Connor, the former chief executive of the National Fire Authority, have requested additional time to evaluate their plea agreements following new disclosures made available to them.
The case stems from an investigation into a fire that occurred at Carpenters Fiji’s property in Walu Bay, which has led to charges of misconduct and corruption against both men. They appeared in Suva Magistrate Court last Friday.
The fire in question took place in 2018 at the MH warehouse in Walu Bay, and the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has brought the charges. O’Connor faces a charge of abuse of office, accused of improperly influencing the outcome of a fire investigation report related to the incident while he served as NFA Board Chair from January to September 2018.
According to FICAC, O’Connor allegedly directed NFA officials to alter findings in the report issued on April 30, 2018, which was prejudicial to the NFA’s rights and aimed at personal gain. Whippy is charged with counseling O’Connor to commit this unlawful act.
FICAC Counsel Sera Fatafehi informed the court that they have received a bail variation application from Whippy, who seeks permission to travel abroad for medical treatment. Whippy intends to undergo either knee surgery in India or stem cell treatment in the United States. FICAC opposes this application, requesting time to verify Whippy’s medical documents and to obtain a second opinion.
Kings Counsel Stephen Stanton noted in court that Whippy prefers the stem cell treatment option in the United States. The case is scheduled for further mention on 28 October, with O’Connor’s plea expected to be taken on January 13, 2025.