Lawyer Seforan Fatiaki has expressed grave concerns over the recent arrest and detention of citizen journalist Charlie Charters by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). Fatiaki believes that the reasons behind Charters’ arrest may not stem from a legitimate criminal investigation but rather from an intention to coerce him into revealing information.
In an official complaint submitted to FICAC, Fatiaki noted that Charters has been accused of aiding and abetting a FICAC officer in the unauthorized disclosure of official information. However, the investigation has yet to target the specific officer in question, raising doubts about the validity of these allegations.
Fatiaki revealed that senior FICAC investigator Mosese Matanisiga allegedly tried to convince Charters to disclose his information source, implying that his release would follow compliance. “It was made clear that Mr. Charters’ arrest and detention were carried out for the sole purpose of extracting that information from him,” Fatiaki commented, emphasizing the ethical implications of the case.
Additionally, Fatiaki contended that FICAC’s tactics suggest an interest in obtaining Charters as an informant rather than treating him as a genuine suspect. He argued that resorting to detention and arrest to compel compliance violates ethical standards and undermines due process and the rule of law.
This unfolding case highlights the critical balance between investigative powers and individual rights, signaling potential concerns for governance and integrity within Fiji’s legal system. As discussions about accountability and transparency continue, there remains hope that ethical and just practices will prevail in resolving this contentious issue.