A government probe into Fiji’s Walesi or Digital TV initiative, aimed at enhancing broadcasting technology in the nation, has revealed troubling practices, including a lack of proper operational licenses and mismanagement of funds from 2015 to 2022. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, disclosed in Parliament that a staggering 68 percent of the $123 million allocated for the Walesi project has been squandered, labeling it a “disgraceful squandering of resources.”
The investigation revealed missing documents related to payments totaling FJ$9.3 million, raising significant accountability concerns, which hindered accurate cost assessment and verification of appropriate fund usage. Furthermore, high-value contracts, such as a FJ$3.6 million project management agreement, were awarded without competitive bidding or clear deliverables, highlighting a lack of transparency and oversight.
The review indicated that the Walesi project operated without an overarching strategic plan, a contract register, or necessary risk management protocols, placing it outside the jurisdiction of Fiji’s Public Enterprises Act. A technical assessment in partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) additionally noted that the network had failed to secure essential operating and spectrum licenses. It also relied on a Multi-Frequency Network (MFN) instead of the recommended Single Frequency Network (SFN), leading to increased operational costs and decreased accessibility, especially in rural regions.
Moreover, the use of the H.264 codec instead of the more efficient H.265 codec resulted in over 200,000 set-top boxes being rendered obsolete from the outset, contributing to wasted taxpayer money. Kamikamica stated these findings would be forwarded to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) for further inquiry, affirming that any evidence of wrongdoing will be pursued rigorously.
In response to the stunning revelations, a reform plan is being developed for Walesi, emphasizing the overhaul of governance structures. Key measures include revising encryption policies to ensure no connection fees for accessing the digital platform, aligning licensing practices with international standards to prevent interference with essential services, and creating a transparent fee structure. Additionally, a review of the Telecommunications Act of Fiji aims to establish sustainable revenue streams without imposing additional burdens on taxpayers.
Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya expressed dissatisfaction with how the findings were presented, insisting that the “honourable thing to do” would have been to inform FICAC prior to the parliamentary disclosure. He emphasized the benefits of the Walesi project, which by March 2023, had provided free digital television services to 90 percent of the Fijian population.
Meanwhile, the Bloc 9 Group, represented by Aliki Bia, welcomed the report and expressed anticipation for the progression of the investigation.
In summary, while the Walesi project has faced serious allegations of mismanagement and inefficiency, the commitment to reform and transparency from the government presents a hopeful outlook for future broadcasting improvements in Fiji. The recognition of previous shortcomings, coupled with plans for accountability and sustainability, allows for the possibility of a more effective digital service that will benefit all Fijians in the long run.
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