The governance crisis at Fiji National University (FNU) has intensified with council chairman Semesa Karavaki being denied access to the university’s Nasinu campus. This incident, which Karavaki described as “insubordination” and comparable to a coup, reflects the growing tensions among the university council, management, and government authorities.
Karavaki attempted to attend a scheduled council meeting but was halted by security personnel who cited orders from higher authorities. Despite several unsuccessful efforts to contact the secretariat for clarification, he expressed his bewilderment and frustration over the situation. “This is like a coup. We will have our council meeting tomorrow, as I have not cancelled it, and we only take our orders from the Ministry of Education by law,” he stated. He asserted that FNU Vice-Chancellor Unaisi Baba is fundamentally employed by the council and is obligated to act in its interests.
Faced with increasing scrutiny regarding Baba’s leadership, Karavaki revealed that the council is contemplating various actions in response to ongoing investigations related to several allegations. Possible measures include placing Baba on leave, reporting issues to the police or the Fijian Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), or executing an immediate leave based on an internal inquiry’s findings.
As the situation continues to unfold, requests for comments from Vice-Chancellor Baba and Acting Prime Minister Filimoni Vosarogo were not returned. The council’s determination to address these significant issues signals a commitment to maintaining compliance and accountability, emphasizing the value placed on governance and transparency during this tumultuous period. This proactive approach by the FNU council highlights their intention to steer the university toward a more stable and well-governed future amidst these challenges.