The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has chosen not to respond to inquiries from The Fiji Times regarding a January 13 letter that exonerated Fiji Sports Council CEO Gilbert Vakalalabure from allegations of abuse of office. Notably, FICAC Commissioner Lavi Rokoika is related to Vakalalabure as his sister-in-law.
In the letter addressed to Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru, Ms. Rokoika stated that the “criminal threshold for corruption offences” had not been met concerning the accusations. She also indicated that she had declared and managed a conflict of interest, although details about this declaration have not been provided.
Following the letter’s circulation on social media, The Fiji Times submitted a series of questions to FICAC, seeking clarifications on multiple points, including the nature of the conflict of interest and the mechanisms by which it was declared and managed. Further inquiries focused on Ms. Rokoika’s claim that no specific “delegation instruments” or “governance documents” outlined the CEO’s authority, raising concerns about whether Vakalalabure acted unilaterally.
The publication also sought clarification about allegations concerning business class travel arrangements for Minister Saukuru and his wife, made possible through Fiji Sports Council funding. Despite these inquiries, both Ms. Rokoika and FICAC have not provided any responses.
Additionally, The Fiji Times questioned FICAC on whether the provisions of the Prevention of Bribery Act (POBA) were examined for potential misconduct, as well as whether transactions favoring the minister received approval from the FSC board.
The lack of response from FICAC raises questions about transparency and accountability within the commission, particularly in cases involving alleged conflicts of interest and governance issues. This situation underscores the critical need for clear communication and due diligence within public institutions to maintain public trust.
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