The Commissioner of the Fiji Corrections Service, Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa, is currently facing significant scrutiny due to an investigation surrounding the hiring of his wife as a nurse within the organization. Dr. Nakarawa has defended the process, claiming it was completely transparent and merit-based.
He explained that the FCS had advertised for three nurse practitioner roles aimed at centralizing clinical services and minimizing hospital visits for inmates. “The clinics are based in Suva and Naboro. Referrals are done by the medical unit, not officers as previously done, to reduce the unnecessary movement of inmates requiring medical attention,” he stated.
Despite advising his spouse against applying for the job, she chose to proceed based on her qualifications. Dr. Nakarawa highlighted that he was not directly involved in the recruitment process, which included an interview panel comprising representatives from the nursing council, police force, and corrections department.
The situation intensified when officers from the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) arrived at Dr. Nakarawa’s office with a search warrant to obtain documents related to the hiring. Following this incident, Dr. Nakarawa was instructed by the Minister for Justice to take leave while the investigation continues. He confirmed that the FICAC officers had sought the interview folder for the nursing position and that they provided the necessary documents.
As the case garners public interest, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has indicated that it will be brought up at the upcoming Constitutional Offices Commission meeting due to allegations of nepotism.
This investigation underscores the importance of maintaining a transparent and fair recruitment process within public institutions. It is a reminder of the need for strict adherence to ethical standards, as even the appearance of nepotism can erode public trust. The hope is that the review will pave the way for clearer guidelines that ensure fairness in hiring practices in the future.
In summary, Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa’s situation reflects broader issues regarding nepotism in government jobs, which has led to a thorough investigation that may help establish stronger recruitment standards within the Corrections Service.
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