Mohammed Shafraaz Ali, a former senior engineer at the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF), has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for bribery, a decision handed down by Resident Magistrate Jeremaia Savou on March 21, 2025. Alongside the prison term, Ali was fined $3,000, which he must pay by June 20, 2025. Failure to do so will result in an additional 300 days in prison.
Ali’s conviction is linked to a bribery incident that occurred between March 1 and June 30, 2017. During this period, he accepted a bribe from Sphynx Solutions Pte Limited in the form of a return air ticket to Sydney, Australia, valued at $1,430.60. This company had been soliciting various requests for essential equipment—such as repair clamps, valves, and joints—needed for projects managed by WAF.
The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) was instrumental in the prosecution of this case, emphasizing the necessity of integrity and accountability in public service. Magistrate Savou underscored the importance of maintaining ethical standards within government roles when delivering the court’s ruling.
Ali has a 28-day window to appeal his conviction or sentence if he chooses to contest the ruling.
This case serves as a clear reminder of Fiji’s dedication to tackling corruption and promoting ethical behavior among government officials. The judiciary’s decisive action not only reinforces public trust but also illustrates that corrupt practices will be met with serious repercussions, fostering a positive trajectory towards better governance and accountability in the region.
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