Attorney-General Graham Leung has recently introduced the Code of Conduct Bill 2025 in Parliament, proposing significant reforms to the ethical framework for public officials in Fiji. Under this proposed legislation, public office holders will be required to declare their assets, liabilities, and financial interests within 30 days of taking office, with penalties for non-compliance including a potential prison sentence of up to one year.
The bill is set to be fast-tracked under Standing Order 51, and has been referred to the Standing Committee on Justice, Law, and Human Rights for a thorough review. “I move that the Code of Conduct Bill of 2025 be considered by Parliament without delay,” Leung stated, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced integrity and accountability within the public sector.
This legislative effort not only aims to modernize the ethical standards governing executive office holders and parliamentary members but also seeks to extend these standards to public officials currently not covered by existing laws. Legal experts have noted that this move is essential for fostering transparency and accountability in government operations.
Key provisions in the Bill mandate annual updates to asset declarations and require that any material changes in financial circumstances be disclosed promptly. The overarching aim is to ensure public office holders uphold high ethical standards, demonstrating integrity and accountability to the citizens they serve.
As part of the broader integrity framework, public entities will also face a statutory obligation to deliver services that align with these ethical standards, promoting fairness and respect in their interactions with the public. Mr. Leung emphasized that this obligation is intended to meet the expectations of the people and to provide them with quality services.
The Code of Conduct Bill represents a proactive approach to fortifying trust in public institutions and could pave the way for greater citizen engagement in governance. This legislative move reflects a collective determination within the Fiji government to promote a culture of accountability, reinforcing the message that ethical conduct is a fundamental priority in public service.
By implementing such stringent measures, the government aspires to cultivate a more transparent and trustworthy political climate, which could significantly enhance public confidence in the system. The progress towards these goals highlights a hopeful trajectory for democracy in Fiji.
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