Fiji Takes Steps to Combat Corruption

The Fijian government has been actively working to combat corruption by introducing various initiatives aimed at promoting transparency and accountability.

Review of Laws and Regulations

One such initiative is a review of laws and regulations governing public licenses, government procurement contracts, and other public undertakings. This review aims to deny access to public sector contracts as a sanction for bribery of public officials.

The goal is to prevent corruption by ensuring that those who engage in corrupt practices are held accountable.
The review will also help to ensure that public funds are used efficiently and effectively.

Strengthening Corporate Accountability

The Ministry of Justice has been reviewing the Companies Act to incorporate more stringent actions against companies that fail to submit their financial returns or falsify their financial returns or books of accounts.

This move aims to hold corporate entities accountable for their actions.
It will also help to prevent corruption by ensuring that companies are transparent in their financial dealings.

Public Awareness and Participation

The government has been promoting public awareness and participation in anti-corruption efforts. A public awareness campaign was launched earlier this year, which included debates on corruption in Parliament and broadcasts on television and radio.

The aim is to educate the public about the importance of fighting corruption.
It will also encourage citizens to report any instances of corruption that they may come across.

Collaboration with Commercial Banks

Commercial banks have been working to combat corruption by reporting suspicious transactions to the Reserve Bank of Fiji and informing the Fiji Islands Revenue and Customs Authority of interest earned by their clients on investments.

This collaboration is aimed at preventing money laundering and other financial crimes.
It will also help to detect and prevent corrupt practices.

Role of Christian Denominations

Christian denominations are also playing a role in raising awareness about corruption. Some contractors and members of the public are coming forward to report cases of corruption.

This move aims to encourage more people to speak out against corruption.
It will also provide support to those who have been affected by corrupt practices.

Establishment of Public Accounts Committee

The government has established a Public Accounts Committee, which is responsible for reviewing financial reports and taking disciplinary action against public officials found to be involved in corrupt practices. An audit committee has also been formed by Cabinet to investigate reports from the Auditor General’s office and initiate disciplinary actions.

The Public Accounts Committee aims to ensure that public funds are used efficiently and effectively.
It will also help to detect and prevent corrupt practices.

Access to Information

The government is committed to ensuring that the general public and media have access to information on corruption matters. Public reporting requirements have been established for justice and other governmental agencies.

This move aims to promote transparency and accountability in government dealings.
It will also provide a platform for citizens to report any instances of corruption.

Whistleblower Protection

In a significant development, the Financial Intelligence Unit has received over 300 suspicious transaction reports since 2001. The government is working to protect whistleblowers by introducing legislation that will shield them from persecution. Currently, only banking institutions are protected under existing legislation.

This move aims to encourage more people to report corrupt practices.
It will also provide support to those who have been affected by corrupt practices.

Role of NGOs

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are playing a key role in monitoring public sector programs and activities, and often highlighting concerns in the media.

This move aims to promote transparency and accountability in government dealings.
It will also provide a platform for citizens to report any instances of corruption.

Conclusion

The Fijian government’s efforts to combat corruption are a positive step towards promoting transparency and accountability in the country. By introducing various initiatives aimed at preventing corrupt practices, the government is demonstrating its commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring that public funds are used efficiently and effectively.