Fiji’s Financial Underbelly: Corruption and Bribery Plague the Island Nation
A recent conference organized by the Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) brought to light the rampant corruption and bribery that is plaguing Fiji’s financial sector. The event, which featured a keynote speech by Ms. Henrietta Matakitoga, a Legal Officer with the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), highlighted the severity of the issue.
Understanding Corruption and Bribery in Fiji
According to Matakitoga, bribery and corruption are serious crimes under Fiji’s Penal Code, Crimes Decree, and Prevention of Bribery Promulgation. She explained that a bribe can take many forms, including gifts, loans, fees, rewards, or commissions. Public officials who receive such bribes can face severe consequences, including imprisonment.
Defining Advantage
The Prevention of Bribery Promulgation defines “advantage” as any gift, loan, fee, reward, or commission consisting of money, valuable security, or property. Matakitoga emphasized that public officers are not just limited to government employees but also include those employed in the public service.
The Devastating Impact of Corruption
The speaker highlighted the devastating impact of corruption on society, citing its ability to erode public confidence in government institutions and undermine the rule of law. She noted that bribery and corruption cases are being investigated by FICAC, with several high-profile cases already making headlines.
Notable Cases
- Chen Xue Liang and Dechuan Zhao were accused of bribing a government official with $6,000 and a box of Chinese tea to influence the tendering of a contract.
- Niraj Singh allegedly paid $100 to an official to expedite legal proceedings.
- Faga Solomone Finiasi, a supervisor, was accused of collecting overtime pay from workers.
The Need for Action
Matakitoga stressed that corruption is not limited to high-ranking officials but can also be found at lower levels. Razim Buksh, Director of Fiji FIU, emphasized the importance of tackling corruption head-on, quoting Ellen G White: “The greatest want of the world is the want of men who will not be bought or sold… men whose conscience is as true to duty as needle to the pole.”
A Brighter Future
As the conference came to a close, it was clear that Fiji’s financial sector has a long way to go before corruption can be eradicated. However, with continued efforts to raise awareness and hold corrupt individuals accountable, there is hope for a brighter future.