The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) is taking significant steps to address judicial delays that have been affecting corruption cases. The new protocol, initiated by the Acting Commissioner, mandates that FICAC counsel limit requests for court adjournments to no more than ten days, fundamentally aiming to alleviate the backlog currently plaguing the judicial system. Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga reported that the court has 170 corruption-related cases pending and has also received 16 new charges this year alone. This move comes as a necessity to tackle the challenges posed by overloaded court schedules, which have been hindering the timely consideration of sensitive cases.
As of June 30, 2025, 152 cases remain active under FICAC’s scrutiny, raising concern over the slow pace of judicial proceedings. The urgency of these measures is underscored by a notable decline in recent convictions, with just seven secured in the first half of 2025—an alarming drop compared to previous years.
In conjunction with efforts to expedite court processes, FICAC has also experienced a rise in public engagement concerning corruption complaints. In February 2025, the commission received 43 complaints, with 11 categorized as corruption-related, indicating an increased public awareness and willingness to report corrupt activities. This improvement can be attributed to FICAC’s proactive approach, which includes educational initiatives designed to promote integrity and encourage vigilance among citizens.
Furthermore, FICAC is restructuring its operations with the assistance of a senior legal consultant aimed at enhancing case management and streamlining its processes. The focus on timely prosecution not only seeks to improve operational efficiency but also hopes to bolster FICAC’s mandate to combat corruption comprehensively.
These recent developments reflect FICAC’s steadfast dedication to fostering a transparent and accountable governance system in Fiji. As initiatives to expedite justice and enhance public engagement continue, there is growing optimism that the changes implemented will pave the way toward reducing corruption and strengthening a legal framework that addresses the concerns of the public effectively. The hopeful anticipation for a future with greater integrity and accountability shines through these ongoing efforts.