A government investigation into Fiji’s Walesi or Digital TV project has revealed significant issues regarding its implementation, including the lack of proper operational licenses and the mismanagement of public funds from 2015 to 2022. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, disclosed in Parliament that approximately 68 percent of the project’s $123 million expenditure was deemed wasted, labeling it a “disgraceful squandering of resources.”
The investigation found missing documentation linked to payments totaling FJ$9.3 million, raising serious accountability concerns and making it challenging to establish accurate cost assessments or ensure appropriate use of funds. The audit also identified that high-value contracts, such as a FJ$3.6 million project management deal, were awarded without competitive bidding or clear deliverables.
Furthermore, the inquiry revealed that Walesi lacked essential components like a strategic plan, contract register, or proper risk management policies, operating outside the purview of Fiji’s Public Enterprises Act. A technical evaluation conducted with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) reported that the network did not obtain the necessary operating and spectrum licenses and chose an outdated Multi-Frequency Network (MFN) technology instead of the more efficient Single Frequency Network (SFN).
Kamikamica noted that these decisions contributed to increased operational costs and hindered accessibility, especially in rural regions. The review also criticized the technology used, indicating that the choice of the H.264 codec instead of the more efficient H.265 codec rendered over 200,000 set-top boxes inefficient and represented a clear waste of public funds.
The findings of the investigation will be forwarded to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) for further scrutiny. Kamikamica affirmed that any evidence of misconduct will be vigorously pursued within the bounds of the law.
As part of a reform plan, governance structures within Walesi are set for an overhaul. Key reforms include reviewing encryption policies to eliminate connection fees to the digital platform, aligning licensing practices with international standards to prevent disruption to critical services, and developing a transparent fee structure while reviewing the Telecommunications Act to create sustainable revenue streams that do not burden taxpayers.
In a response to the Ministerial Statement, Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya expressed dissatisfaction regarding the disclosure of the findings, emphasizing the need for the issue to have been reported to FICAC earlier. He highlighted the benefits of the project, noting that by March 2023, Walesi had successfully provided free digital television service to 90 percent of the Fijian population. Aliki Bia from Bloc 9 Group acknowledged the report and expressed eagerness for the progress of the investigations.
This investigation stands as a critical opportunity for Fiji to rectify past mistakes in its broadcasting initiatives and to better align future technological advancements with public accountability and efficiency. Reforms in governance and transparency indicate a hopeful path towards more responsible management of public resources, which could ultimately enhance service delivery and foster inclusivity in access to digital media.
Overall, the situation highlights the importance of accountability in public projects and presents a chance for systemic improvements that can benefit the Fijian population in the long run.
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