The Fiji Independent Commission against Corruption (FICAC) has updated the charges against lawyer Tanya Waqanika during her appearance at the Suva Magistrate’s Court, presided over by Magistrate Yogesh Prasad. Waqanika is facing allegations of violating the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act 2013 by publicly opposing the political party SODELPA.
Specifically, she is charged under Section 14(7) and Section 14(1)(d) of the Act, as it is claimed that while serving on the boards of Investment Fiji and Telecom Fiji Limited, she made critical comments about SODELPA in a Facebook post dated April 19, 2024.
FICAC lawyer Rusiate Doidoi has provided additional disclosures concerning the case, underscoring the evolving legal landscape surrounding political expression in Fiji. Waqanika is expected to enter her plea at her next court hearing scheduled for the 24th of next month.
This case illustrates the ongoing challenges regarding political free speech and the obligations of public officials in Fiji, emphasizing the delicate balance between individual expression and adherence to legal standards in a politically charged atmosphere. As the situation develops, it will be important to observe how this interplay influences both public discourse and legal governance in the region.