The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has announced the suspension of its Chief Executive Officer, Joeli Cawaki, pending an ongoing investigation into serious allegations. Specific details regarding the nature of these allegations have not been disclosed. The Acting CEO, Iliesa Batisaresare, provided an update on October 20, 2025, stating that Cawaki was informed of the investigation’s progress.
In his statement, Batisaresare emphasized the importance of refraining from speculation, as it may lead to confusion among the public and media. He assured that once the investigation is concluded, a press statement would be released detailing the findings but noted that further comments could not be given at this stage for legal reasons.
This development follows a period of scrutiny for MSAF amid concerns raised by Goundar Shipping Limited (GSL) regarding the misuse of public funds by board members, improper travel expenditures, and governance issues within the organization. The allegations have heightened awareness around MSAF’s accountability in managing the maritime sector effectively.
Amid these challenges, MSAF continues to assert its dedication to passenger safety, reaffirming its commitment to fulfill its mandated role in ensuring secure maritime operations. The authority’s focus on compliance and the integrity of operations is crucial, especially as Fiji navigates through these challenging times.
Given the context of these allegations and the ongoing investigation, there exists a hopeful outlook that this situation could prompt necessary reforms within Fiji’s maritime regulatory framework. The current circumstances may serve as a catalyst for improving governance and accountability within MSAF, thereby fostering a safer maritime environment for all stakeholders involved. Ultimately, enhancing transparency and addressing these governance issues carry the potential to restore public trust in the maritime authority while prioritizing safety and compliance.
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