A recent government investigation into Fiji’s Walesi Digital TV project has raised serious concerns regarding the management and use of public funds. Originally aimed at modernizing the country’s broadcasting capabilities, the project has been scrutinized for lacking appropriate operational licenses and for mismanaging funds between 2015 and 2022.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, announced in Parliament that an alarming 68 percent of the $123 million allocated for the Walesi project has been deemed wasted, characterizing the situation as a “disgraceful squandering of resources.” Auditors identified the absence of documentation for payments amounting to FJ$9.3 million, leading to concerns over accountability and making it challenging to verify the actual costs or appropriate use of funds.
The review also highlighted the awarding of significant contracts, such as a FJ$3.6 million project management deal, without competitive bidding or clearly defined deliverables. Furthermore, Walesi was found to operate without a strategic plan, contract register, or effective risk management policies—factors that rendered it outside the purview of Fiji’s Public Enterprises Act.
A technical assessment, conducted with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), revealed that the Walesi network failed to secure necessary operating and spectrum licenses. The review pointed out that the network utilized a Multi-Frequency Network (MFN) instead of the more efficient Single Frequency Network (SFN), which has led to higher operational costs and limited access, particularly in rural areas. Additionally, the choice of technology was called into question, specifically the use of the H.264 codec instead of the globally endorsed H.265 codec, leading to the distribution of over 200,000 outdated set-top boxes at substantial public expense.
These findings have prompted Kamikamica to refer the matter to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), emphasizing that any evidence of misconduct will be pursued rigorously under the law. In light of the investigation, a reform plan for Walesi is being implemented, focusing on improving governance structures.
Key proposed measures include revising encryption policies to eliminate connection fees for users, aligning licensing practices with international standards to mitigate service interference, and developing a transparent fee structure. Additionally, there are plans to review the Telecommunications Act of Fiji to establish sustainable revenue streams that would not unfairly burden taxpayers.
Despite the alarming findings, Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya expressed dissatisfaction with the disclosure process and emphasized the importance of reporting such matters to FICAC before public announcements. He mentioned the project’s benefits, including a free digital television service that reached 90 percent of the Fijian population by March 2023.
Blocs like the Bloc 9 Group, represented by Aliki Bia, have welcomed the investigation and look forward to discussing its findings and implications further.
This situation presents a crucial opportunity for Fiji to reassess its governance and transparency in public projects. The positive spin lies in the government’s commitment to reform and accountability, aiming for a more efficient and community-focused broadcasting system moving forward. By addressing these concerns, Fiji can create a broadcasting environment that better serves all its citizens while restoring public trust in governmental operations.
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