The Suva Magistrate’s Court has scheduled a trial date for former Acting Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Salote Panapasa. Panapasa faced Magistrate Krishan Prasad on Thursday, where she was charged with two counts of abuse of office and an alternative charge of general dishonesty causing a loss.
The allegations against Panapasa state that between August 1 and September 30, 2023, while serving as a civil servant in Suva, she directed officers to use building materials belonging to the Fiji Corrections Service for her personal residence in Kinoya. Additionally, it is claimed that during the period from August 1 to October 31, 2023, she instructed a Corrections officer to manipulate weekly reports to legitimize the utilization of these materials for her home.
Although the hearing was intended to confirm the agreed facts, FICAC lawyer Mary Takinana informed the court that, according to Panapasa’s lawyer, only two facts had been agreed upon: Panapasa’s name and her position. The rest of the allegations put forth by FICAC remain contested. Both parties have agreed to set the trial for June 23 to 27 of the following year, with her bail being extended until that time.
This case underscores the importance of accountability within public office and the legal system’s commitment to addressing allegations of misconduct. As the trial date approaches, it presents an opportunity for both the prosecution and defense to fully present their cases, which is a vital aspect of due process. The outcome of this trial could have significant implications for governance standards and integrity in public service in Fiji.
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