Goundar Shipping Ltd (GSL) recently voiced its disappointment on social media regarding the activities of certain members of the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) board. The company has called for an urgent investigation into what it alleges are severe instances of corruption, bias, and abuse of authority.
GSL highlighted its investment of $9 million in a state-of-the-art fast ferry that has complied with all technical and safety requirements set by MSAF. Despite full compliance, the vessel remains idle, allegedly due to undue influence exerted by specific board members.
In response to GSL’s claims, Transport Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and stressed that good governance, transparency, and accountability are paramount in regulating the maritime sector. Ro Filipe reaffirmed MSAF’s duty to make independent decisions about vessel registrations and certifications based on safety regulations.
He also pointed out that while public complaints about the authority are a right, they should be made responsibly to preserve integrity and ensure due process is followed. The minister confirmed that MSAF is under review to ensure alignment with international standards and compliance.
Similar past allegations against MSAF indicate ongoing concern about governance and operational integrity. GSL’s previous claims noted questionable expenditures on international travel by board members without clear benefits for Fiji’s maritime industry. Such issues contribute to a growing sense of mistrust among stakeholders.
MSAF, currently addressing various operational challenges involving GSL, has acknowledged persistent concerns about ticket sales misconduct and passenger overloading due to lapses in staff conduct. Initiatives to enhance compliance and safety have been emphasized to restore public confidence in the maritime system.
Despite the negative circumstances surrounding these allegations, there remains hope for reform within Fiji’s maritime sector. The proactive steps being taken by both GSL and MSAF could ultimately enhance transparency and build a more reliable transport system for the Fijian community. The focus on safety and adherence to regulations signals a promising commitment to improving the integrity of maritime operations.
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