The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has officially closed five high-profile cases involving notable figures such as 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 referred to FICAC by the Supervisor of Elections, Ana Mataiciwa, earlier this year.
In a statement released yesterday, FICAC informed Ms. Mataiciwa that the cases were closed on July 24.
Regarding the investigation into Bainimarama, FICAC concluded that there was insufficient evidence to substantiate the allegations made by the complainant, based on the findings from the investigations and subsequent legal opinions. Furthermore, FICAC clarified that the allowances in question are classified as exempt income under the Income Tax (Exempt Income) Regulation 2016, applicable to all official allowances for Parliament members. However, it also noted that the Income Tax Act does not recognize any allowance related directly to the obligations of an employee’s duties, such as per diem allowances.
In the case concerning Mr. Sayed-Khaiyum, the investigation revealed that the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act 2013 does not specifically address the declaration of “Income and Types of Income” by political party office holders. FICAC has recommended revisions and enhancements to the Fijian Elections Office to prevent similar issues in the future and to improve clarity and assistance during investigations.
FICAC stated that for the other matters referred by Ms. Mataiciwa, those investigations are still ongoing, and the commission will refrain from commenting until they are completed. FICAC emphasized that it continues to operate normally, handling every complaint with the diligence it warrants, regardless of the individuals involved.