The Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) has officially appointed Nurse Practitioner Vakaloloma Mocevakaca Nakarawa, who is notably the spouse of Commissioner Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa. This appointment comes against a backdrop of heightened scrutiny regarding the integrity of the hiring processes within the service. FCS asserts that the Commissioner possesses the authority to make such hires as specified under Section 130 (7) of the Constitution.
According to a press release issued by FCS, the decision to appoint Nakarawa aims to bolster operational efficiency within the newly formed Medical Unit, responsible for overseeing healthcare services across Fiji’s various divisions, including Southern, Central, Eastern, Western, and Northern areas. The FCS emphasized that these roles were filled without any salary raises or bonuses, indicating that the focus was strictly on enhancing service delivery.
Despite the explanations provided, the recruitment has been met with significant public backlash, with accusations of nepotism surfacing. Previous reports indicated widespread concerns about the hiring process, although FCS insists that the selections were conducted fairly by an impartial panel. They elaborated that the panel was unaware of Mrs. Nakarawa’s intention to apply until they assessed the candidates, and she excelled in the evaluation.
In light of the increasing criticism, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has advocated for a comprehensive investigation into the recruitment processes at FCS. He aims to uphold transparency and competitiveness in hiring standards. The introduction of an external panel for the interview process is viewed as a step towards restoring trust and credibility within the hiring framework.
This incident underscores the critical need for accountability and transparency in public service appointments. It presents an opportunity for FCS to reassess its hiring policies and practices. Addressing these issues transparently can help safeguard the integrity of the service and enhance public trust in the corrections system. There remains a hopeful outlook for reforms in governance and recruitment standards, which may ultimately strengthen the relationship between the institution and the communities it serves.
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