Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced forthcoming reforms aimed at restructuring the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), emphasizing the need for significant changes in alignment with his electoral promises. Rabuka indicated that any modifications will be approached with caution, particularly due to the constitutional requirements outlined in Section 115, which governs amendments to legal frameworks.
During his remarks, Rabuka stated, “We will have to formulate the structure of FICAC; it has to be part of the main policing organization and processes.” This restructuring aims to differentiate various crime units within the police force, including dedicated teams for drug-related offenses and corruption investigations. The intention behind these changes is to bolster the integrity of FICAC amid concerns that it may have been misused in the past for political purposes.
The FICAC, which began its operations in April 2007, is empowered to investigate public sector corruption and possesses the authority to manage investigations and prosecutions independently of other entities. It can halt any criminal proceedings it initiates without reaching a judgment, reinforcing its significant role in upholding accountability within the government.
Rabuka’s announcement aligns with earlier discussions about the reform process for FICAC, as well as broader governmental objectives to enhance transparency and accountability. Acknowledging prior delays in amending the FICAC Act, the Prime Minister underscored that the government’s efforts are now being coordinated with the Office of the Attorney-General, which has expressed readiness to begin a review of the Act.
Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga recently indicated that his office is prepared to draft the necessary amendments, pending Cabinet approval, and has received support from Commonwealth experts. These efforts aim to address the operational challenges faced by FICAC, which has been scrutinized regarding its effectiveness and conduct in investigating corruption.
The forward momentum in reviewing FICAC signifies a positive step toward greater accountability in Fiji’s governance. By ensuring compliance with constitutional protocols while seeking to fortify the organization’s structure, there remains hope that these reforms will foster public trust and enhance the efficacy of anti-corruption initiatives in the nation. The collaborative efforts between various government offices reflect a commitment to establishing a framework capable of addressing the persistent issues of corruption, ultimately aspiring toward a more transparent and accountable political landscape in Fiji.
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