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

O’Connor faces a charge of Abuse of Office, with the indictment claiming that between January 1 and September 28, 2018, he improperly directed NFA officers to amend the findings of a fire investigation report concerning a fire incident at the MH Warehouse in Walu Bay on April 8, 2018. The actions are alleged to have undermined the rights of the NFA and were purportedly intended to provide personal benefits to O’Connor.

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

During the court proceedings, Whippy’s attorney informed the magistrate of his client’s need for knee surgery, which will require him to travel overseas from February 2 to March 1, 2025. The FICAC prosecutor did not object to this request, resulting in the lifting of a Stop Departure Order for that timeframe, allowing Whippy to seek necessary medical treatment.

The court has scheduled a follow-up mention for March 3, 2025, to determine next steps in this case. This ongoing legal situation emphasizes the critical importance of accountability and transparency within Fiji’s public institutions. As proceedings continue, there is hope that such judicial processes will not only uphold ethical standards but also help restore public trust in governance and leadership.

The focus on accountability in this case serves as a reminder of the need for integrity and the upholding of ethical standards in both public and private sectors, fostering a culture of responsibility and trust essential for the effective functioning of governance in Fiji.