Allegations of nepotism and abuse of office against Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa, the former commissioner of Fiji Corrections Service, have been upheld by a tribunal appointed by the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC). Following an extensive investigation, the tribunal recommended Dr. Nakarawa’s removal from his position, a decision that has now been formally executed by the Office of the President, terminating his appointment on February 26, 2026.
The allegations against Dr. Nakarawa included favoritism in hiring practices, particularly concerning the employment of family members, as well as misuse of office and financial misconduct. The COC initiated the tribunal in April 2025 to look into these claims and provide guidance to the President regarding Dr. Nakarawa’s continuation in the role.
Comprising three High Court judges, the tribunal conducted what they described as a thorough and independent inquiry, calling more than 40 witnesses and examining various documents as evidence. Dr. Nakarawa was provided the opportunity to defend himself against the allegations and was represented by legal counsel.
One significant allegation concerned the hiring of Dr. Nakarawa’s wife and stepsons, which was reported to have deviated from standard recruitment processes. Testimony revealed that a job was created and posted in a way that aligned specifically with his wife’s qualifications, contradicting prior medical advice and the Minister for Justice’s policies on job evaluations.
Additionally, there were claims of abuse of office, including reports of unfair treatment toward other employees in the Fiji Corrections Service, marked by unjustified demotions or dismissals. The tribunal also probed accusations that Dr. Nakarawa had misappropriated funds for personal use.
Concluding its investigations, the tribunal determined that the allegations were substantiated, characterizing Dr. Nakarawa’s conduct as poor leadership that eroded public trust in the Fiji Corrections Service and tarnished the agency’s reputation.
In light of the findings, Mr. Auta Moceisuva has stepped in as the acting commissioner, leaving an opportunity for new leadership in the organization as it moves forward from this controversy. This transition signals the potential for positive change within the Fiji Corrections Service as it seeks to restore public confidence and uphold integrity within its ranks.