Joeli Cawaki, the Chief Executive of the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), has been suspended for four weeks, a decision made by the MSAF Board due to concerns regarding his approval of a new passenger ferry. Cawaki, who took over the chief executive role in November 2023, has been a prominent advocate for reforming maritime safety in Fiji, advocating for stricter regulations and improved compliance standards within the industry.
His administration has encountered scrutiny, particularly related to governance issues at MSAF, which involve allegations of fiscal mismanagement and oversight of operations linked to Goundar Shipping Services. Previously, Goundar Shipping Ltd had raised concerns regarding the alleged misuse of public funds by MSAF, sparking discussions on transparency and governance within the authority. In response to these accusations, Transport Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau rejected the claims as unfounded, assuring that MSAF operates within the bounds of the law and maintains its independence.
The current challenges faced by MSAF, including delays in investigating maritime incidents due to staffing shortages, have prompted the authority to announce plans for reform. These initiatives include legislative reviews intended to implement stricter regulations and enhance safety standards. The MSAF’s commitment to reform reflects a recognition of the necessity for increased accountability and transparency in Fiji’s maritime operations.
This challenging period might serve as an impetus for significant reform within the maritime sector, potentially leading to a renewed dedication to safety and compliance that ultimately benefits passengers and the environmental landscape. This evolution in MSAF’s operations holds the promise of restoring public trust and strengthening the authority’s role in ensuring safe maritime transport in Fiji, paving the way for a more reliable and transparent future.