Fiji's Justice Minister is set to take the stand in the tribunal hearing of Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa, the suspended Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner. But here's where it gets controversial: Dr. Nakarawa's defense team has requested the opportunity to cross-examine the Minister, suggesting that political considerations may have played a role in the decision to refer the commissioner's case to the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC).
The tribunal, led by Justice Daniel Goundar, along with Justices Savenaca Banuve and Dane Tuiqereqere, has confirmed that no determination of misbehavior has been made yet, and the proceedings are still in the fact-finding stage. Dr. Nakarawa, who was appointed Corrections Commissioner in May 2023 and suspended in March this year, faces allegations of nepotism, conflict of interest, and governance issues within the Fiji Corrections Service. The defense team has indicated that they will file a formal application outlining why the Justice Minister should be called to give evidence on possible political interference surrounding the suspension.
The tribunal has also confirmed a list of 12 witnesses who will present evidence supporting the allegations. Additionally, the defense has requested the tribunal's approval to summon additional witnesses connected to the events leading up to the suspension. Further affidavits regarding these additional witnesses are expected to be lodged this week. The tribunal will reconvene tomorrow afternoon, and the public is invited to tune in to VITI+ to stream the proceedings and stay informed about this developing story.
