Attorney-General Graham Leung has recently proposed the Code of Conduct Bill 2025 in Parliament, a significant legislative step aimed at reforming the ethical framework for public officials in Fiji. If enacted, the bill would require public office holders to declare their assets, liabilities, and financial interests within 30 days of assuming their positions, imposing penalties for non-compliance that could include up to a year in prison.
The bill is being fast-tracked under Standing Order 51 and has been sent to the Standing Committee on Justice, Law, and Human Rights for examination. Leung stressed the necessity for enhanced integrity and accountability in the public sector, stating, “I move that the Code of Conduct Bill of 2025 be considered by Parliament without delay.”
This proposed legislation not only aims to modernize ethical standards for executive office holders and members of Parliament but also intends to apply these standards to other public officials who currently fall outside existing laws. Legal experts are advocating that this initiative is vital for promoting transparency and accountability within governmental operations.
Key elements of the bill include the requirement for annual updates to asset declarations and immediate disclosure of any significant changes in financial circumstances. The central goal is to ensure that public office holders maintain high ethical standards, thereby demonstrating integrity and accountability to the citizens they serve.
Moreover, public entities will be mandated to operate in alignment with these ethical standards, promoting fairness and respect in their dealings with the public. Leung emphasized that these expectations are meant to ensure that citizens receive quality services.
The introduction of the Code of Conduct Bill marks a proactive approach toward building trust in public institutions and increasing citizen engagement in governance. This initiative reflects a strong commitment by the Fiji government to foster a culture of accountability, conveying the message that ethical conduct is a priority in public service.
By instituting these stringent measures, the government aims to create a transparent and trustworthy political environment, potentially restoring public confidence in the system. The steps being taken signal a hopeful path for democracy in Fiji, reinforcing the importance of ethical governance for the future of the nation.
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