Fiji’s Fight Against Corruption: Major Reforms Underway at FICAC

The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) is undergoing significant internal reforms under the guidance of Acting Commissioner Lavi Rokoika. These changes are intended to enhance efficiency, strengthen discipline, and promote responsible usage of public resources in the ongoing fight against corruption. In her message on the FICAC website, Ms. Rokoika asserted that these internal reforms aim to solidify the agency’s commitment to professionalism and the responsible management of public funds.

The transformative reforms prioritize essential areas, such as enforcing discipline and ensuring measurable outcomes for the citizens of Fiji. Rokoika emphasized that the fight against corruption necessitates the establishment of preventative systems, the promotion of ethical behavior, and the restoration of public trust. “This is more than mere prosecution—it’s about leading by example,” stated Rokoika, reinforcing the organization’s dedication to its anti-corruption mission.

FICAC’s internal restructuring mirrors similar efforts laid out by its former Commissioner, Barbara Malimali, who highlighted the agency’s enduring commitment to operational autonomy in responding to public calls for reform. Malimali previously faced scrutiny but maintained that FICAC retained the authority to manage its internal processes without external influence, thus fostering an environment of accountability.

Both Rokoika and Malimali’s efforts align with FICAC’s ongoing mission to improve governance and accountability in Fiji. The recent reforms include measures to address outstanding corruption cases by prioritizing prosecutions and reviewing old case files with the help of a senior legal consultant.

This revitalization of FICAC signifies a promising opportunity for Fiji as a nation. The Commission’s enhanced focus on transparency, integrity, and effective governance represents a hopeful step towards building a corruption-free society. By encouraging all stakeholders, including citizens, to actively participate in this transformative journey, there remains considerable optimism for restoring public confidence and fortifying Fiji’s ethical framework in governance.