The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has launched a second investigation into the alleged corruption tied to the Lautoka swimming pool project. This follows a previous inquiry that occurred between 2018 and 2019, the results of which remain undisclosed as FICAC cites the ongoing investigation.
Concerns have been raised by former Lautoka City Council horticulturalist, Shri Charan, who shared his stressful experience during the initial investigation. Charan noted that investigators conducted home visits, gathered documents, and examined bank records, leaving many employees anxious and uncertain of their standing, despite payments being sourced from government allocations.
Since 2017, the Lautoka swimming pool project has experienced significant delays, which were first brought to light during a restructuring aimed at transforming it into an internationally recognized venue. The Lautoka City Council (LCC) carried out its own separate investigation in 2019, with former LCC special administrator Debra Sadranu voicing concerns over serious issues affecting the completion of the project.
Recent Auditor General reports corroborate these challenges, exposing substantial management and planning flaws within the swimming pool project. Notable findings include pre-contract payments to the principal consultant and inconsistencies in financial documentation, raising serious questions about fiscal oversight. Despite expenditures nearing approximately $1.45 million, documentation inaccuracies have been noted in the council’s asset statements.
The LCC has acknowledged the difficulties impacting the project, identifying insufficient oversight and delays linked to the timing of government funding disbursements as principal factors behind work stoppages. However, the council remains optimistic, pledging to enhance project management procedures and ensuring all contracts are finalized before future works begin.
Looking forward, there is hope that the Lautoka swimming pool project could reach completion by 2026. With new funding sources and a commitment to improved governance practices, there is potential to restore public trust. A successful outcome could lead to remarkable advancements in local recreational facilities, ultimately enhancing community welfare and opening doors for international events.
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