Individuals responsible for siphoning public funds in recent times must be held accountable for their actions, asserted Attorney-General Graham Leung.
In his inaugural speech during the Budget Debate in Parliament yesterday, Leung emphasized, “The public interest demands this.”
“Based on anecdotal evidence, there has been significant misappropriation of public funds in the past, potentially in violation of the law,” Leung stated. “Those responsible must face the full weight of the law.”
Leung highlighted that with the recent budgetary allocation to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), the commission now has the resources to meet public and legal expectations.
He noted that FICAC has cases dating back to 2014. “I was informed by their staff that it was difficult to obtain confirmed hearing dates in court. Numerous cases were amidst partly heard matters and many FICAC cases were stuck in the extensive criminal lists awaiting their turn.”
Leung suggested the potential need to reinstate a dedicated “corruption court” and mentioned plans to consult closely with stakeholders to evaluate the justification for such a move.
He emphasized that corruption and poor governance are security challenges that undermine democracy, the rule of law, and economic development.
“FICAC must execute their responsibilities fearlessly, no matter how difficult or inconvenient, following the facts and evidence. This is essential to restoring public trust in the Government.”
Additionally, Leung warned that FICAC must never again be used as a tool to target or punish the government’s political opponents, labeling such actions as an abuse of power and unacceptable.