Former National Fire Authority (NFA) Board Chair John O’Connor has pleaded “Not Guilty” to corruption charges brought against him by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). O’Connor appeared at the Suva Magistrates Court alongside Daniel Whippy, Managing Director of Carpenters Fiji, who has also entered a “Not Guilty” plea relating to similar allegations.
O’Connor faces a charge of Abuse of Office, which alleges that between January 1, 2018, and September 28, 2018, he improperly directed NFA officers to amend the findings of a fire investigation report linked to an incident at the MH Warehouse in Walu Bay on April 8, 2018. The indictment suggests that these actions negatively impacted the rights of the NFA and were intended to provide a personal benefit to O’Connor.
Whippy is charged with Counseling for the Omission of Offense, accused of advising O’Connor to make the disputed amendments to the investigation report. During the court proceedings, Whippy’s attorney requested permission for him to travel overseas for knee surgery scheduled from February 2 to March 1, 2025. The FICAC prosecutor did not oppose this travel request, allowing for the lifting of a Stop Departure Order.
The court has scheduled a follow-up mention for March 3, 2025, to discuss further developments and potentially establish a hearing date for the case.
This situation underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in public institutions in Fiji, reflecting ongoing efforts to uphold ethical standards in governance. As developments unfold, there remains optimism that these proceedings will help restore public trust in leadership and reinforce the necessity of integrity in both public and private sectors. The legal process serves as a vital framework for ensuring that individuals in positions of power are held responsible for their actions, creating a more trustworthy governance environment in Fiji.
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