Dismissal Sparks Debate on Fairness in Fiji’s Public Service

The wife of suspended Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) Commissioner Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa, Ms. Loma Waqakibau-Nakarawa, has been dismissed from her role as a Nurse Practitioner, raising concerns about procedural fairness. This termination took place despite a recent clearance by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), which found that Dr. Nakarawa and his wife’s appointment adhered to legal standards and did not involve nepotism.

Dr. Nakarawa shared on social media that the Acting Commissioner terminated his wife’s contract without due process, emphasizing the alarming nature of dismissing someone who had been cleared of all allegations. He argued that such actions could undermine public confidence in governmental institutions. The FICAC’s investigation confirmed that the hiring process for Ms. Waqakibau-Nakarawa was transparent, having included public advertisement and interviews, and concluded that she was the most qualified candidate. Their report noted that not appointing a suitably vetted spouse could be considered discriminatory.

While FICAC found no legal breaches regarding her appointment, it emphasized the importance of public perception and recommended that similar appointments be subject to independent review by a higher authority to prevent conflicts of interest. This recommendation highlights ongoing concerns about transparency within the FCS and the effect of perceptions of nepotism on public trust.

The controversy surrounding the dismissal and the treatment of public servants raises significant questions about hiring practices in Fiji’s public service sector. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has indicated that these issues will be addressed in upcoming discussions, potentially paving the way for reforms aimed at bolstering transparency and ethical standards in government operations.

This situation presents an opportunity for necessary reforms within the FCS and could lead to improved trust between public institutions and the community. By openly addressing these concerns, the Fiji government can work towards a more ethical and transparent framework for public service appointments, fostering better relationships with its citizens.