A couple has appeared in the Suva Magistrate Court facing serious corruption charges linked to approximately $500,000. Edua Biuvuli Matai, a former principal accounts officer for the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), has been charged with abuse of office for personal gain. His wife, Taucilagi Duri, is also facing charges for aiding and abetting in this abuse.
The charges stem from allegations that, between November 2019 and June 2022, Matai exploited his position in the civil service to facilitate payments to a business called Ink Escape Supplies, without declaring his ownership interest in it. During his time in office, Matai reportedly authorized payments totaling $467,616.40 from RFMF to this vendor, actions that are claimed to have disadvantaged the rights of the military organization.
The couple appeared before Senior Magistrate Sufia Hamza and were remanded in custody due to their inability to provide sureties. The magistrate instructed the couple’s lawyer to arrange for sureties who are older and have authority over them. While the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) did not oppose bail, they requested that strict conditions be imposed, including a non-cash bond of $5,000, monthly reporting to FICAC, and the surrender of travel documents.
The case has been postponed for a bail hearing today.
This situation underscores the ongoing efforts of authorities to address corruption and maintain accountability in public office, reflecting a commitment to uphold integrity within government systems. The outcome may serve as a reminder of the importance of ethical conduct for individuals in positions of power.
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