The Fiji Medical Association is seeking clarification from the Fiji Corrections Service regarding the recent termination of its Senior Medical Officer (SMO) based in Suva. Association President Dr. Alipate Vakamocea disclosed that the SMO was dismissed without justification by the Commissioner of Corrections.
Dr. Vakamocea noted that, while the Commissioner has the authority to terminate staff as per the contract, the timing of this particular dismissal raises significant concerns. On January 20, 2025, the SMO had a meeting with his supervisor, Mr. Alevio Turaga, and Dr. Nakarawa, the Commissioner, to address a racist email previously sent by Mr. Turaga. The doctor has alleged that this email was a blatant violation of various human rights, including the Right to Equality and Non-Discrimination.
Following this meeting, the Commissioner directed the doctor to lead an orientation for new medical personnel, including Mrs. Loma Nakarawa, the Commissioner’s wife, who was set to become a Nurse Practitioner. The dismissal letter was issued immediately after this orientation, leading to suspicion about a potential conflict of interest. It is reported that Mrs. Nakarawa is now assumed to operate as the senior medical officer for the Corrections Service.
Dr. Vakamocea argued that the doctor’s rights have been breached, and the timing of the dismissal suggests it may be linked to the earlier discussions regarding the racist behavior of Mr. Turaga. He raised alarms over the ethical implications of Mrs. Nakarawa’s appointment, emphasizing that Nurse Practitioners and Doctors operate under distinctly different standards as delineated by the Fiji Nursing Council.
The Fiji Medical Association has urged that this matter be investigated thoroughly, emphasizing that it not only questions the ethical conduct of the involved parties but also endangers the standard of care provided within the Corrections Service, reflecting a broader need for oversight and adherence to ethical standards in medical practice.
This situation highlights the importance of ethical governance in healthcare roles, especially in corrective environments where the wellbeing of individuals is at stake. It serves as a reminder that clear boundaries and respect for human rights must be maintained in every professional decision to safeguard integrity and trust in the system.
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