Acting Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), Lavi Rokoika, has advocated for the establishment of a comprehensive Anti-Corruption Code to revamp and modernize Fiji’s legal framework. Speaking during a recent session with the parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence, Rokoika expressed concerns regarding the fragmentation of existing anti-corruption laws, which are currently scattered across various legislative pieces, including the Crimes Act and Proceeds of Crime Act.
Rokoika emphasized that a cohesive Anti-Corruption Code is essential in enhancing public trust in FICAC’s operations and ensuring clarity and consistency in combating corruption. “Having one clean, modern anti-corruption code would make FICAC’s work clearer, more consistent and effective,” she stated, highlighting the importance of this legislative upgrade in the country’s fight against corruption.
In addition to the need for a comprehensive code, Rokoika also raised important issues surrounding corporate governance laws, pointing out gaps particularly in shareholder responsibilities and silent ownership. She noted that these aspects are addressed more effectively in other jurisdictions, and proposed that such measures could bolster Fiji’s accountability mechanisms in combating corruption.
This call for legislative modernization comes amidst ongoing reforms within FICAC aimed at enhancing its operational efficiency. Rokoika previously highlighted the urgent need to reinstate a specialized Anti-Corruption Division in the High Court, which was disbanded under the 2023 High Court (Amendment) Bill. The absence of this division has contributed to significant backlogs in corruption cases awaiting resolution, further hampering the judiciary’s capacity to deliver timely justice.
As Rokoika laid out her vision for a more robust anti-corruption framework, it aligns with recent reforms aimed at expediting processes within FICAC, including the establishment of a Special Taskforce for addressing long-standing cases. These initiatives reflect a concerted effort to enhance FICAC’s effectiveness and public trust, ultimately fostering a culture of integrity and accountability within Fiji’s governance landscape.
Rokoika’s remarks signify a hopeful outlook for the future, as efforts to strengthen the framework around anti-corruption and corporate governance may lead to more effective measures against corruption, improving the integrity of public institutions in Fiji. The trajectory towards enhancing legal and institutional frameworks represents a commitment not only to tackling corruption but also to fostering transparency and ethical governance in the country.
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