The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) is currently addressing a significant volume of corruption-related cases, with 172 matters pending in the courts and numerous others being evaluated. This situation underscores the extensive demands placed on the Commission and its persistent struggle with a backlog of cases.
Acting Commissioner Lavi Rokoika reported that between June and December 2025, the FICAC received a total of 108 complaints, of which 81 have already undergone preliminary assessments. Following these evaluations, cases were either directed towards further investigation or closed if they did not meet the necessary legal criteria for advancement.
In its efforts to streamline operations, FICAC has also been tackling longstanding cases. In the Central and Eastern Divisions, investigative teams managed to close 168 cases, forwarding seven of these to the Fiji Police Force, some of which have lingered unresolved since 2007. Rokoika noted that the volume of cases underlines the Commission’s commitment to fortifying its organizational structure since June 2025, aimed at enhancing the efficacy of investigations and prosecutions.
The Legal Division remains stretched thin, with 172 cases currently active in court, the oldest stemming from 2013, highlighting the intricate challenges associated with prosecuting corruption. Since her appointment, Rokoika has overseen the filing of 14 charges, emphasizing that the Commission moves forward only when there is adequate admissible evidence to support prosecutorial claims.
Rokoika articulated that FICAC’s strategy is designed to alleviate the existing backlog while ensuring that all cases presented in court are supported by robust legal foundations. The Commission’s ongoing efforts reflect a deep commitment to restoring integrity within Fiji’s public services and reinforcing the rule of law, instilling hope for a cleaner governance future.
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