A three-member tribunal has begun proceedings to investigate allegations of professional misconduct against Dr Jalesi Nakarawa, the suspended Commissioner of the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS). The inquiry is being conducted under the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC) and is chaired by Justice Daniel Goundar, with Justices Savenaca Banuve and Dane Tuiqereqere as members. Dr Nakarawa is represented by senior counsel Simione Valenitabua.
The tribunal’s mandate is to determine the facts surrounding the alleged misconduct. Dr Nakarawa was suspended by the COC in March, following multiple allegations. His legal team has stated that they dispute the allegations, underscoring that the inquiry is a public process designed to uncover the truth.
During the hearing, the tribunal indicated that the proceedings would be conducted in open court, allowing media and public access. Valenitabua said the openness would support transparent and robust discussions. Justice Goundar noted that the ultimate aim of the tribunal is to ascertain the truth.
As of the latest session, disclosures to the tribunal have not yet been filed. Assisting counsel Juleen Fatiaki said disclosures would be ready before the pre-tribunal hearing scheduled for September 22. Valenitabua added that once disclosures arrive, the defense will counter the allegations with documentary evidence. He also indicated that Dr Nakarawa’s spouse is prepared to provide a statement or affidavit if needed, given that the allegations have touched on her appointment as a Nurse Practitioner for the FCS, a role she no longer holds.
The tribunal has set its hearing for November 3 to 14 this year, marking a significant step in addressing governance concerns within Fiji’s corrections service and in examining due process in high-level public-office matters.
Context and what to watch
– The appointment and composition of the tribunal were publicly announced, with the panel led by Justice Goundar. Earlier reports indicate the appointment was gazetted in mid-July 2025, and a pre-hearing conference was anticipated later this year.
– Key questions to follow include whether disclosures are filed in time and what documentary evidence the defense will present to counter the allegations.
– Observers will also be watching for any interim governance implications for the Fiji Corrections Service and whether the inquiry yields recommendations for reforms to strengthen accountability and public trust.
Overall, the proceedings reflect ongoing efforts by Fiji’s constitutional framework to ensure due process, transparency, and accountability in the governance of public offices. The outcome of the tribunal could influence the future leadership and governance practices within the Fiji Corrections Service, with potential implications for public confidence and institutional integrity. A positive, reform-oriented trajectory remains possible as the process unfolds.
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