Suspended Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa is currently embroiled in allegations of misconduct related to his stepson, Jeremaia Yavala, who was transferred to the CCTV unit after requesting lighter duties due to struggles with hard labor. This transfer followed Dr. Nakarawa’s verbal directive, which was corroborated by FCS Deputy Commissioner Auta Moceisuva during the ongoing tribunal hearings in Suva.
Mr. Yavala’s tenure with the FCS faced challenges leading to his eventual termination for poor performance, absenteeism, and a reported incident of intoxication in public, which the FCS stated damaged the service’s reputation. This has raised concerns about potential nepotism and the recruitment practices within the organization, similar to previous controversies surrounding Dr. Nakarawa’s wife, Vakaloloma Mocevakaca Nakarawa, who was previously appointed as a Nurse Practitioner despite allegations of favoritism.
Moreover, Deputy Commissioner Moceisuva indicated that Dr. Nakarawa unilaterally created a nursing position without prior approval from the Ministry of Finance, reallocating resources to accommodate this new role despite existing senior medical officers. This action has prompted questions regarding the transparency and governance of the FCS.
The Cabinet Secretary, Susan Kiran, clarified that salary increases for corrections officers were approved, but Dr. Nakarawa’s restructuring measures were not. The tribunal continues to delve into Dr. Nakarawa’s decisions, including the handling of welfare funds and other administrative actions that directly implicate ethical standards within the service.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has acknowledged the need for ethical governance and transparency in public service, suggesting that these inquiries could lead to crucial reforms within the FCS. The ongoing hearings represent an opportunity to enhance accountability and restore trust in the institution, ensuring that future hiring practices are strictly merit-based and not influenced by personal ties.
The hopes are that these developments will illuminate the necessity for stricter adherence to ethical standards in public service, potentially benefitting both governmental institutions and the communities they serve. As the tribunal continues, many are optimistic for a resolution that strengthens governance and public trust in Fiji’s correctional system.