The Acting Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), Lavi Rokoika, has called for the reintroduction of a specialized anti-corruption court as a crucial step towards alleviating the significant backlog of corruption cases plaguing the judicial system. Currently, Fiji’s legal framework is missing dedicated anti-corruption divisions following their dissolution under the 2023 High Court (Amendment) Bill, which has led to extended delays in case resolutions.
During her recent presentation to the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence, Rokoika emphasized the challenges faced due to limited court availability, resulting in many cases waiting months for trial dates. “From June or July this year, we couldn’t book a hearing date. The diary of the bench is full; most of our cases have been pushed to next year,” she stated. Reestablishing an anti-corruption court, according to Rokoika, could significantly enhance the efficiency of handling cases, allowing for quicker resolutions and improved access to justice for victims of corruption.
Rokoika also highlighted how prolonged delays impact the integrity of ongoing investigations, noting that witnesses may forget crucial details over time or even pass away, which complicates prosecutions. She urged Parliament to consider her recommendations seriously to expedite the judicial process for these cases.
Amidst these challenges, FICAC is actively implementing a new strategic plan designed to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness. Rokoika, under her leadership, has initiated various reforms, including establishing a Special Taskforce to address long-standing cases and prioritizing internal monitoring systems to ensure timely investigations. Notably, FICAC has engaged a senior legal consultant to expedite the review of old cases and has been working on enhancing transparency and accountability within its operations.
These moves indicate a broader commitment within FICAC and governmental bodies towards improving Fiji’s governance landscape and reinforcing the fight against corruption. The hopeful outlook stems from a recognition of the importance of timely justice and unwavering integrity in public institutions. By cultivating a proactive and transparent approach, FICAC hopes to foster public trust and ensure that corruption is met with effective accountability measures, ultimately contributing to a more ethical future for governance in Fiji.
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