The Ministry of Local Government in Fiji is proactively addressing long-standing mismanagement issues across municipal councils. Minister Maciu Nalumisa announced that suspected cases of financial misconduct are now being referred to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). This initiative aligns with efforts to strengthen oversight, with a dedicated audit and compliance unit actively reviewing operations within councils nationwide.
Nalumisa emphasized the ministry’s commitment to resolving these issues by applying rigorous follow-ups and actively addressing findings from internal audits. Already, special audits have been completed for four municipal councils, and the goal is to conduct checks for the remaining nine councils by the end of the current financial year.
This strategic approach reflects a determined effort to enhance accountability and transparency in council operations, a theme resonant with previous actions such as the ongoing preparations for municipal elections and audits in various councils to rectify past financial mismanagement.
Earlier measures, such as those implemented by the Nasinu Town Council, underscore this commitment to accountability, as they also initiated a forensic audit to investigate financial discrepancies and reinforce responsible governance. The proactive steps across different councils signal a movement toward improved governance, instilling hope for a more transparent and accountable local government system that ultimately benefits the community.
With ongoing assessments and a dedicated approach to tackling financial issues, there is optimism for a positive shift in governance practices, ensuring that public resources are managed effectively and that the welfare of citizens is prioritized.
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