The Suva Magistrate’s Court has scheduled a trial for former Acting Commissioner of Fiji Corrections Service, Salote Panapasa, who is facing charges related to abuse of office. During her court appearance on Thursday, Magistrate Krishan Prasad reviewed two counts against her, as well as an alternative charge of general dishonesty that allegedly caused financial loss.
According to the allegations, between August 1 and September 30, 2023, while serving as a civil servant in Suva, Panapasa purportedly instructed her officers to utilize building materials belonging to the Fiji Corrections Service for construction work at her private residence in Kinoya. Furthermore, it is claimed that from August 1 to October 31, 2023, she directed a Corrections officer to modify weekly reports in an attempt to legitimize this use of resources.
The court hearing was initially intended to cover the agreed upon facts, but FICAC lawyer Mary Takinana indicated that Panapasa’s legal counsel had confirmed only two points of agreement: her name and professional title. All other facts presented by FICAC are reportedly in contention. Both sides consented to scheduling the trial for June 23 to 27 of the following year. Meanwhile, Panapasa’s bail has been extended.
This case is significant, as it underlines the importance of accountability in public office. The scheduled trial serves as a step towards a transparent legal process, where facts will be thoroughly examined. It also emphasizes the ongoing efforts in Fiji to tackle corruption and ensure integrity within public services. As this case progresses, it offers an opportunity for Fiji to reaffirm its commitment to justice and ethical governance.
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