The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption has informed the Fijian Elections Office of its decision to close the investigation concerning former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama. The inquiry focused on accusations regarding the submission of false declarations of Income, Assets, and Liabilities for the years 2014 to 2019 and 2022.
The issue was referred to the Commission by the Supervisor of Elections in February of this year. Findings from the investigation indicated that Bainimarama accurately declared his dividend and the value of his shares, along with his term saver account where the dividend was deposited.
Additionally, investigators concluded that under the Income Tax (Exempt Income) Regulation 2016 Schedule (Regulation 3), specific allowances are exempt from taxation. This includes official allowances provided to members of Parliament. However, Section 15 (c) of the Income Tax Act states that any allowance concerning the performance of employment duties, including per diem allowances, is not regarded as exempt.
Ultimately, following the investigation and subsequent legal opinion, the Commission determined there was insufficient evidence to substantiate the claims made by the complainant.