A couple faced the Suva Magistrate Court this afternoon, charged with alleged corruption involving approximately $500,000. Edua Biuvuli Matai, the former Principal Accounts Officer of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, is accused by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) of abusing his office for personal gain. His wife, Taucilagi Duri, is charged with aiding and abetting this abuse.

The charges stem from allegations that between November 2019 and June 2022, while employed in the civil service, Matai failed to declare his personal interest in a business named Ink Escape Supplies. It is claimed that he improperly facilitated the addition of this company as a vendor for the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), resulting in payments totaling $467,616.40 that were detrimental to the RFMF’s interests.

During their appearance before Senior Magistrate Sufia Hamza, both individuals were remanded due to their inability to provide sureties. The magistrate instructed the couple’s lawyer to arrange for sureties who are older and have a supervisory role over the accused. While FICAC did not oppose bail, they requested strict conditions including a non-cash bond of $5,000, monthly reporting to FICAC, and the surrender of travel documents. The case has been adjourned for a bail hearing.

In a time when enhancing transparency and accountability in public office is crucial, this case highlights the ongoing efforts to combat corruption anywhere it may arise. The legal process will ensure that any wrongdoing is addressed appropriately, reminding public officials of the importance of ethical conduct. It is a hopeful situation that through this process, lessons will be learned to prevent future abuses.