Two individuals are facing serious legal charges as they were recently arraigned in the Suva Magistrates Court on corruption-related offenses, as confirmed by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). The accused are Ripon Baral, a former Manager of Project Controls at the Fiji Roads Authority, and Aktar Ali.
Baral is charged with one count each of Abuse of Office, Falsification of Documents, and Bribery, while Ali faces a single count of Bribery. The allegations focus on activities that took place between October 2017 and January 2018, during which Baral allegedly falsified a tender submission for Naboutini Transport concerning a footpath project in the Western Division. Ali is accused of providing inducements to Baral to influence the tender process.
During their court appearance, held before Resident Magistrate Shageeth Somaratne, FICAC did not oppose bail but requested that strict conditions be imposed. Consequently, the court granted non-cash bail with a Stop Departure Order. Both individuals are required to surrender their travel documents, report monthly to FICAC, must not interfere with witnesses, and are to maintain their current addresses as part of the bail conditions.
This case builds on FICAC’s broader commitment to combating corruption in Fiji, which includes a series of recent prosecutions against individuals in the public service accused of similar misconduct. For instance, allegations against other public figures have surfaced, highlighting attempts to ensure accountability and transparency in government dealings.
As these legal proceedings unfold, there is hope that they will not only reinforce the rule of law but also enhance public confidence in governance. The actions taken by FICAC demonstrate a focused effort to eradicate corruption, which is crucial for fostering a fair and just society. The trial has been adjourned until November 6, which will mark the next step in this continuing legal battle.