Police have issued a bench warrant for Apimeleki Tola, the chairman of the iTaukei Land and Fisheries Commission (TLFC), following a nine-month committal sentence handed down by the Lautoka Magistrate’s Court in his absence. The sentence is a result of his conviction for assault and property damage, offenses committed in October 2022.
According to police spokeswoman Ana Naisoro, Tola’s failure to attend court for sentencing led to the warrant’s issuance. Magistrate Shelyn Kiran rendered the decision without Tola being present. The TLFC, established under the iTaukei Lands Act of 1905 and the Fisheries Act of 1941, plays a crucial role in adjudicating disputes concerning land ownership, fishing rights, and the installation of customary chiefs.
This situation underscores the ongoing battle against corruption and misconduct within Fiji’s public service, particularly relating to positions of authority. It mirrors recent cases involving former employees of the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB), where significant legal actions have been taken to uphold accountability. For instance, another former TLTB employee, Inosi Tauvoli, received a two-year prison sentence for similar offenses linked to the Abuse of Office. Such cases have emphasized the judiciary’s commitment to restoring integrity within public services.
As the legal proceedings progress, they may foster an environment of greater transparency and accountability within Fiji’s governmental institutions. This proactive approach towards addressing misconduct reflects a hopeful commitment to ethical governance, aiming to restore public confidence in the institutions designed to serve and protect the community.