The government has rejected allegations of intimidation and threats made by Francis Puleiwai, the former Acting Deputy Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).
During a press conference outside Parliament, Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica stated that the Coalition Government does not condone any intimidation against those serving as “corruption watchdogs.” He made it clear that this administration is different from the previous FijiFirst government, which faced numerous allegations of threats and interference.
“If there is any evidence of ministerial interference, it should be presented to the appropriate authorities,” Mr. Kamikamica remarked, urging Ms. Pulewai, who has claimed that certain senior lawyers and ministers have meddled in FICAC’s work, to formally report her allegations.
He reiterated that Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has emphasized a zero-tolerance policy toward threats of any kind. “This is a free society, and individuals should be able to operate without fear. I was saddened to hear these claims, as intimidation was a characteristic of the prior regime,” he remarked.
Mr. Kamikamica encouraged anyone facing intimidation to speak out, even to government ministers if necessary. “This is not something our government supports. Anyone feeling threatened should seek assistance or approach a minister,” he stressed. He assured that the government would take action to prevent further misconduct.
Puleiwai, currently residing in Australia, made her claims last weekend, which elicited strong reactions from government critics and political analysts.
The government also assured her of her safety and encouraged her to return to Fiji. Mr. Kamikamica expressed his disappointment upon learning of her fears for her and her family’s safety, stating, “My message to Ms. Pulewai is that no one in Fiji is trying to jeopardize her or her family’s safety. We do not tolerate intimidation or threats.”
He emphasized the government’s commitment to freedom of expression and condemned any form of threat against those who challenge authority.
“It’s unfortunate that someone has opted to issue threats, but our government does not support such behavior,” he added.
Mr. Kamikamica acknowledged that he met with Ms. Pulewai during her time at FICAC, noting that their meeting was strictly professional. “I spoke with her on two matters I wished to discuss, and I asked if there were any reports concerning me, which I am willing to address. To me, that is not intimidation; it’s our right to inquire,” he stated.
He reiterated that their discussions were related to specific cases within his ministry and recalled encouraging her to bring forward any inquiries regarding his case. “I don’t view that as intimidation; true intimidation would involve preventing a case from moving forward or threatening someone not to proceed,” he explained.