Former National Fire Authority Board Chair John O’Connor has pleaded “Not Guilty” to corruption charges filed against him by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). This plea was made during a court appearance at the Suva Magistrates Court, alongside Daniel Whippy, the Managing Director of Carpenters Fiji, who also entered a “Not Guilty” plea concerning related charges.
O’Connor faces a count of Abuse of Office related to allegations that, between January 1 and September 28, 2018, he improperly directed NFA officers to alter findings in a fire investigation report regarding a fire that occurred on April 8, 2018, at the MH Warehouse in Walu Bay. This alleged misconduct is claimed to have undermined the rights of the NFA while providing personal benefits to O’Connor.
Whippy is charged with Counseling for the Omission of Offense, as he is accused of advising O’Connor to make modifications to the investigation report’s findings.
During the court proceedings, Whippy’s attorney informed the magistrate of his client’s need for knee surgery, requesting permission for medical travel scheduled between February 2 and March 1, 2025. The FICAC prosecutor did not object to this request, leading to the lifting of a Stop Departure Order, thereby allowing Whippy to seek necessary medical treatment.
The court has scheduled a follow-up mention for March 3, 2025, to determine the next steps in this case. This ongoing legal matter emphasizes the importance of accountability and transparency within Fiji’s public institutions. As the situation unfolds, it holds the potential to strengthen public trust in governance and reinforce ethical standards across both public and private sectors in Fiji.
As the judicial process proceeds, there is hope that it will restore integrity and confidence in leadership in Fiji, ensuring that public officials are held accountable for their actions.
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