The tribunal examining the case of Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa, the suspended Commissioner of the Fiji Corrections Service, has been postponed to resolve procedural matters, including finalizing witness lists in preparation for a comprehensive hearing scheduled for tomorrow. Dr. Nakarawa’s legal representatives plan to request permission to cross-examine the Minister for Justice, asserting that political factors may have impacted the decision to refer the case to the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC).
The defense intends to submit a formal application outlining reasons why the Minister should testify regarding allegations of political interference related to Nakarawa’s suspension. The tribunal, presided over by Justice Daniel Goundar with Justices Savenaca Banuve and Dane Tuiqereqere, clarified that no conclusions have been drawn about misbehavior thus far, as the proceedings concentrate on collecting facts.
A preliminary list of 12 witnesses has been identified to present evidence supporting the allegations against Nakarawa. Additionally, the defense seeks to introduce further witnesses connected to the events surrounding his suspension, indicating plans to file more affidavits shortly.
Nakarawa, who was appointed as Commissioner in May 2023, was suspended in March due to complaints related to nepotism, conflicts of interest, and governance issues within the Fiji Corrections Service. The tribunal is expected to reconvene tomorrow afternoon, with the possibility of instigating changes that may bolster accountability and transparency in Fiji’s public institutions.
This case raises critical governance questions and sparks vital discussions about integrity within the corrections system. Many hold the hope that the outcomes of the tribunal will lead to significant reforms, ultimately establishing a more reliable and effective corrections framework in Fiji. As proceedings advance, stakeholders remain optimistic that such inquiries will yield positive changes that benefit both the institution and the wider community.