Nepotism Controversy Shakes Fiji Corrections Service: What’s Next?

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has confirmed that the Constitutional Officers Commission (COC) has received numerous complaints against the Commissioner of the Fiji Corrections Service, Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa. The complaints include concerns regarding the appointment of Dr. Nakarawa’s wife, Vakaloloma Mocevakaca Nakarawa, who has been appointed as a nursing practitioner and is now acting as a medical officer within the service.

In addressing these complaints, which were on the COC meeting agenda, Prime Minister Rabuka emphasized the importance of following due process. He stated that once a complaint is received, the accused will be given a chance to respond, ensuring a fair investigation into the matter.

Justice Minister Siromi Turaga has raised additional concerns, noting that he was not informed about Mrs. Nakarawa’s appointment or her salary as mandated by the 2013 Constitution. Dr. Nakarawa contested these claims, stating that the Constitution does not require ministerial consent for individual staff appointments, focusing instead on organizational structure and compliance.

The controversy surrounding Mrs. Nakarawa’s appointment has fueled discussions of nepotism within the Fiji Corrections Service. Dr. Rayvan Singh, a former senior medical officer, has claimed that his termination coincided with Mrs. Nakarawa’s rise to her current position. He was let go shortly after welcoming her to the team, raising further questions about the timing and propriety of the appointments.

This situation highlights ongoing governance and accountability challenges within the Fiji Corrections Service, illuminating the need for transparent processes in public appointments. The calls for investigation and reevaluation of hiring practices present an opportunity for the government to reinforce integrity and fairness in public service.

The outcome of the COC’s review and the public dialogue around these issues may lead to significant reforms, fostering a stronger belief in the ethical standards of Fiji’s correctional institutions and ensuring that future appointments adhere to principles of merit and transparency.