The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has concluded five significant cases involving high-profile individuals. The matters included former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, Minister for Sugar Charan Jeath Singh, former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem, and former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama. These cases were initially referred by the Supervisor of Elections, Ana Mataiciwa, earlier this year.
In a recent announcement, FICAC informed Ms. Mataiciwa of the case closures on July 24.
FICAC detailed that in the investigation concerning Bainimarama, the findings revealed insufficient evidence to substantiate the claims made by the complainant. The commission noted that the allowances in question were exempt under the Income Tax (Exempt Income) Regulation 2016 Schedule, classifying all official allowances for Parliament members as exempt income. However, it also stated that Section 15 (c) of the Income Tax Act does not acknowledge allowances related to the employee’s duties, which includes per diem allowances.
Regarding Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, the investigations indicated that the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act 2013 did not specifically address the types of income that political party office holders are required to declare.
FICAC has made recommendations to the Fijian Elections Office to revise and strengthen certain areas, aiming to avoid similar issues in the future and ensuring clearer guidance during investigations.
The commission added that for other matters referred by Ms. Mataiciwa, they remain ongoing, and FICAC would refrain from commenting until investigations are complete.
FICAC emphasized that the commission continues its operations as usual, handling all complaints with the thoroughness they warrant, regardless of those involved.