Former National Fire Authority (NFA) Board Chair John O’Connor has pleaded “Not Guilty” to corruption charges filed against him by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). O’Connor made this plea during a court appearance at the Suva Magistrates Court, where he was accompanied by Daniel Whippy, the Managing Director of Carpenters Fiji, who also entered a “Not Guilty” plea regarding related allegations.

O’Connor is facing a charge of Abuse of Office, which stems from allegations that between January 1 and September 28, 2018, he improperly directed NFA officers to amend findings in a fire investigation report linked to a fire incident at the MH Warehouse in Walu Bay on April 8, 2018. These actions are alleged to have undermined the rights of the NFA while providing personal benefits to O’Connor.

Whippy, on the other hand, is charged with Counseling for the Omission of Offense, as he is accused of advising O’Connor to make these unauthorized changes to the investigation report.

During the proceedings, Whippy’s attorney informed the magistrate about his client’s need for knee surgery, requesting permission to travel overseas for medical treatment scheduled between February 2 and March 1, 2025. The FICAC prosecutor did not oppose this request, leading to the lifting of a Stop Departure Order, allowing Whippy to seek necessary medical attention.

The court has scheduled a follow-up mention for March 3, 2025, to determine the next steps in this case. This situation not only highlights serious allegations against public officials but also underscores the critical importance of accountability and transparency within Fiji’s public institutions.

As the judicial process unfolds, there remains optimism that it will enhance public trust in governance and reaffirm the commitment to high ethical standards in both public and private sectors, fostering a culture of integrity that is essential for healthy civic engagement and institutional functionality.