Dr. Rayvan Singh, formerly a senior medical officer at the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS), has raised serious concerns regarding his dismissal, which he describes as unjust and untimely. He was terminated on January 20, 2025, just two days after filing a formal complaint about a racist email from his supervisor, Alevio Turaga. The email, which included derogatory remarks, was sent to Dr. Singh and several high-ranking officials, including Commissioner Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa.
In his testimony to the tribunal investigating Dr. Nakarawa’s alleged misconduct, Dr. Singh explained that after he reported the racist comments via email to the Commissioner on January 18, he was called to a meeting with Dr. Nakarawa and Turaga. Following that meeting, while Turaga was reassigned and later promoted to Acting Commissioner of Corrections, Dr. Singh felt that the apology he received from Turaga lacked sincerity.
Dr. Singh disclosed that on the same day he was fired, he conducted an orientation for new medical staff, where Dr. Nakarawa’s wife, Vakaloloma Mocevakaca Nakarawa, newly appointed as a nurse practitioner, was present. Dr. Singh emphasized that he had not given consent for her placement in this role, raising potential conflicts of interest within the agency.
The sudden termination left Dr. Singh in shock, especially as he had just relocated his family from Lautoka to Suva and was in the midst of settling into his new environment. He insisted that he had never received any warnings or disciplinary actions regarding his performance, making the dismissal feel even more unfounded and procedurally unfair.
The case has drawn significant attention from the Fiji Medical Association (FMA), which has called into question the ethical implications surrounding the termination and the treatment of discrimination within the workplace. They are advocating for a comprehensive investigation into these occurrences, emphasizing the need to uphold human rights and address systemic issues within the corrections environment.
This incident reflects broader discussions about ethics, governance, and equality in the FCS, underscoring the importance of transparent practices and accountability in public service roles. As this matter progresses through the tribunal, it serves as a compelling reminder of the ongoing fight for justice and equality in the healthcare sector, particularly within correctional institutions. There is hope that through this scrutiny, necessary reforms will arise, promoting a healthier workplace environment for both employees and inmates.
Leave a comment