The Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence has expressed the critical need for the reestablishment of a specialized anti-corruption court in Fiji. Lenora Qereqeretabua, the committee’s chair, emphasized that this move would enhance the capabilities of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) in fulfilling its mandate effectively.
During the presentation of FICAC’s Consolidated Review Report for the years 2018-2020, Qereqeretabua noted that the specialized court would allow FICAC to improve its operational efficiency and help foster a culture of integrity and governance in Fiji. She highlighted the importance of strengthening resources, educational outreach, and human capital investment as essential components in combating corruption.
The committee also raised concerns about delays in implementing various key initiatives, including the Youth Ambassador Programme and the National Anti-Corruption Curriculum. Qereqeretabua indicated a strong recommendation for enhanced resource allocation to FICAC to ensure these initiatives are realized in a timely manner. She urged collaboration with the Ministry of Education to prioritize the integration of anti-corruption education into the school curriculum and teacher training programs.
In light of FICAC’s past challenges, which included criticism and social media harassment, the need for staff retention initiatives was stressed. This includes offering skills-based allowances for specialized roles and performance-based incentives to ensure that FICAC remains competitive within the public sector.
The optimistic approach reflected in these discussions aligns with previous statements from FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali, who has consistently underscored the importance of empowering citizens to identify and report corrupt activities. She has also highlighted FICAC’s dedication to fostering collaborative efforts with governmental and civil society stakeholders to navigate the landscape of governance challenges effectively.
As FICAC looks toward creating a corruption-free Fiji by 2025, the recommendations made by the committee signal a collective commitment to enhancing public awareness and involvement in the anti-corruption initiatives. This reinforces the understanding that community participation is crucial in building a brighter future characterized by integrity and good governance.
Despite the adversities faced, there is a hopeful trajectory ahead for Fiji as the governmental bodies and citizens work collectively to reinforce ethics and accountability throughout society. This collaborative spirit holds promise for positive transformations in the nation’s governance landscape.
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