The tribunal in Fiji recently commenced proceedings concerning allegations against suspended Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) Commissioner Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa, focusing on claims that his stepson, Jeremaia Yavala, was employed without completing the necessary training. The inquiry began with testimony from eight witnesses who elaborated on the protocols surrounding recruitment and training within the FCS.
On the first day of the hearing in Suva, it was revealed that Mr. Yavala was among 55 recruits who underwent mandatory basic training but failed to meet essential criteria, including a core requirement of completing a 2.4-kilometer run. Corrections physical training instructor Alipate Qaqabalavu testified that although failing recruits typically could not progress further, he received instructions from Commandant Isireli Nataqa to allow Mr. Yavala to continue his training after he had initially failed—a decision that acknowledged a breach of protocol but aimed to avoid allegations of insubordination.
Mr. Nataqa, in his testimony, explained that he acted under direction from the late Superintendent of Corrections Apakuki Quri and asserted that employing family members within the FCS was not an uncommon practice in his 34 years of service. Mr. Yavala later admitted to the tribunal that he signed a pre-prepared employment application and lacked the necessary trade qualifications for the roles he performed as a Temporary Relieving Officer – Class C.
Concerns about nepotism were amplified as Staff Officer Iowane Kalokalo testified that he was not consulted regarding Mr. Yavala’s appointment, nor that of other individuals allegedly related to Dr. Nakarawa, who similarly lacked relevant skills. Although the defense argued the absence of documentation supporting claims of favoritism, witnesses acknowledged that their statements were primarily based on assumption rather than solid evidence.
This case parallels ongoing discussions regarding recruitment practices within the Fiji Corrections Service, especially in light of past controversies surrounding allegations of nepotism that led to scrutiny over Dr. Nakarawa’s wife, Vakaloloma Mocevakaca Nakarawa, who was previously appointed as a Nurse Practitioner despite initial concerns. The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) cleared her of any wrongdoing after an investigation confirmed a transparent hiring process, yet public skepticism persists regarding the integrity of such decisions.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has emphasized the need for ethical standards and transparency within public service, suggesting that these inquiries could foster necessary reforms. The hearings and the accompanying scrutiny present an opportunity for the FCS to enhance governance standards, potentially restoring public trust while ensuring that all recruitment processes adhere strictly to merit-based principles. As the tribunal continues its proceedings, there is hope that the outcomes will lead to more effective recruitment practices and increased accountability within the Fiji Corrections Service.
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