The future of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) remains under the jurisdiction of Parliament, according to Acting Commissioner Lavi Rokoika. Her comments come in response to growing public calls for the organization to be disbanded, as some perceive it has been misused for political gain.
Rokoika emphasized that while citizens are free to express their opinions, any decision regarding the operational status of FICAC must adhere to legislative procedures. “People are entitled to their views,” she stated, noting that the organization is established by law and any changes would require parliamentary action, not decisions made by the Office of the Commissioner.
She acknowledged that like many institutions, FICAC faces its share of challenges, particularly concerning the timely investigation of cases. Rokoika explained that each case is handled individually, which can lead to delays in certain investigations. “We acknowledge that there are challenges,” she remarked. Despite this, she reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to its statutory duties, clarifying that FICAC will close cases when there is a lack of sufficient evidence to proceed.
The comments signal the commission’s determination to continue its work amidst criticism, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding the effectiveness and role of FICAC in Fiji’s political landscape. The emphasis on following proper legislative processes suggests a hopeful path forward, where accountability and governance are anchored in law.
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