A senior legal officer from the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) testified that members of the board felt compelled to comply with the directives of the suspended Commissioner, Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa, or risk facing demotion or transfer. Kesaia Balewai, who provided evidence at the tribunal investigating Dr. Nakarawa’s alleged misconduct, emphasized a prevailing culture of compliance among all commissioners.
During her testimony, Ms. Balewai recounted how Helen Koi, a senior accounts officer known for addressing concerns over the FCS’s Welfare and Sports Fund, was unjustly terminated by Dr. Nakarawa. Initially, Ms. Koi was issued a variation notice that unjustly reduced her salary and later demoted her without substantive justification. Ms. Balewai noted the lack of performance reviews or proper assessments as required by the Job Evaluation Exercise salary payment recommendations, suggesting procedural injustices.
She recommended that the FCS should provide written explanations for such drastic changes, ensure that any variations comply with due process, and consider reinstatement or fair compensation for Ms. Koi, who had previously raised concerns about her treatment. However, despite these recommendations, Ms. Koi was ultimately terminated.
Moreover, Ms. Balewai indicated that the appointment of Aquila Namakadre as Assistant Commissioner for Corrections and the termination of Salesia Racaca were executed without due process. She also criticized the irregular appointment of James Koroituba as a legal analyst, highlighting questionable qualifications and the preferential treatment shown towards him.
In addressing governance concerns, Ms. Balewai pointed out the lack of independence within the FCS Welfare Board, claiming that the board was merely a nominal entity with all decision-making power resting with the commissioner. This included instances where funds were allocated for personal use without proper deliberation, showcasing a disregard for accountability and transparency.
Additionally, an officer named Ilisoni Ratunaikoro testified about his demotion under unclear circumstances, reporting no explanation for his new position as logistics officer. His demotion caused considerable emotional distress, igniting questions about the procedural integrity adhered to within the FCS.
The ongoing tribunal brings to light not just individual cases of potential misconduct but also systemic issues within the Fiji Corrections Service. The testimonies paint a broader picture of a workplace where compliance and hierarchy overshadow justice and transparency.
There is hope that these proceedings will catalyze necessary reforms, reinforcing the importance of due process and ethical governance in public service appointments. By addressing these allegations thoroughly, the FCS may restore public confidence and reinforce the integrity of its operational framework.
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