Acting Commissioner of Corrections Sevuloni Naucukidi is set to provide crucial testimony during the tribunal hearing regarding suspended Commissioner Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa. This hearing is a pivotal moment as Dr. Nakarawa faces multiple allegations, including personal benefit, financial mismanagement, and abuse of authority.
Dr. Nakarawa, who was appointed Commissioner in May 2023, was suspended in March 2025 after allegations arose concerning improper governance, nepotism, and conflicts of interest within the Fiji Corrections Service. The tribunal, chaired by Justice Daniel Goundar with Justices Savenaca Banuve and Dane Tuiqereqere, is conducting a thorough fact-finding mission to evaluate the validity of these allegations and ensure that due process is being followed.
This inquiry is particularly significant, as it reflects broader efforts to improve governance and transparency within Fijian public institutions. The proceedings are open to public and media attendance, which emphasizes a commitment to transparency and accountability in handling serious allegations against high-ranking officials. As the tribunal progresses, there is hope that its findings could lead to meaningful reforms within the Fiji Corrections Service, fostering public trust and reinforcing operational integrity.
As noted in earlier sessions, Dr. Nakarawa’s legal team plans to counter claims with detailed evidence while the tribunal continues to assess all witness testimonies. Observers are optimistic that the outcomes of this inquiry will not only address the immediate allegations but may also lead to significant enhancements in the governance frameworks guiding public offices throughout Fiji.