Former National Fire Authority (NFA) Board Chair John O’Connor has formally pleaded “Not Guilty” to corruption charges brought against him by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). O’Connor, alongside Daniel Whippy, the Managing Director of Carpenters Fiji, appeared in the Suva Magistrates Court to face the allegations.

O’Connor is charged with Abuse of Office, with allegations stating that between January 1 and September 28, 2018, he unlawfully directed NFA officers to alter findings in a fire investigation report related to an incident at the MH Warehouse in Walu Bay, which occurred on April 8, 2018. The indictment claims that these actions compromised the rights of the NFA and were intended to benefit O’Connor personally.

Whippy also entered a “Not Guilty” plea and faces charges of Counseling for the Omission of Offense, accusing him of advising O’Connor to make the unauthorized amendments to the investigation report.

During the court session, Whippy’s attorney informed the magistrate of his client’s need for knee surgery, seeking permission to travel overseas for the treatment scheduled from February 2 to March 1, 2025. The FICAC prosecutor did not oppose this travel request, leading to the lifting of a Stop Departure Order for that period.

The next mention of this case is scheduled for March 3, 2025. This situation not only highlights the ongoing efforts to uphold accountability and transparency in Fiji’s public institutions but also serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of ethical standards in governance. As this legal process unfolds, there is hope that it will restore public trust in leadership and ensure the integrity of both public and private sectors is prioritized. The commitment to uphold justice is essential for reinforcing confidence in public institutions and maintaining ethical conduct among leaders.