A couple appeared in Suva Magistrate Court today in connection with an alleged corruption case totaling approximately $500,000. Edua Biuvuli Matai, the former Principal Accounts Officer of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), faces charges from the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption for abusing his office for personal gain. His wife, Taucilagi Duri, is charged with aiding and abetting this abuse.
The allegations specify that between November 2019 and June 2022, while working in civil service, Matai failed to disclose his personal interests in a business called Ink Escape Supplies. He wrongfully added this business as a vendor for the RFMF, allowing for payments totaling $467,616.40 to be made, which compromised the rights of the RFMF.
During today’s proceedings before Senior Magistrate Sufia Hamza, the couple was remanded due to their inability to secure sureties. The Magistrate instructed their lawyer to arrange for suitable sureties who are older and have authority over them. Although the FICAC did not oppose bail, they requested stringent conditions, including a non-cash bond of $5,000, monthly reporting to FICAC, and the surrender of their travel documents. The case has been adjourned for a bail hearing to take place today.
This case highlights ongoing efforts to combat corruption within public sectors and reinforces the importance of transparency and accountability in government operations. As the legal proceedings unfold, there is hope that justice will be served and will serve as a reminder of the ethical responsibilities held by public officials.
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