Allegations of nepotism and abuse of office against former Fiji Corrections Service commissioner Dr Jalesi Nakarawa have been substantiated by a tribunal appointed by the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC).
A government statement confirmed that the tribunal recommended Dr Nakarawa’s removal from office following its investigation.
“The Office of the President subsequently issued a letter terminating Dr Nakarawa’s appointment on 26 February 2026,” the statement read.
“As a result, there is now a vacancy for the substantive commissioner’s role, with Mr Auta Moceisuva currently serving as acting commissioner.”
The allegations against Dr Nakarawa included claims of biased recruitment of family members, abuse of office, and improper handling of funds.
According to the government statement, the COC convened the tribunal in April 2025 to investigate the complaints and advise the President on its findings, including whether Dr Nakarawa should remain in the role.
The tribunal, which comprised three High Court judges, conducted what was described as a thorough and independent inquiry.
More than 40 witnesses were called during the proceedings and numerous documents were presented as evidence.
Dr Nakarawa was given the opportunity to respond to the allegations and was represented by legal counsel, submitting evidence in his defence.
One complaint centred on the hiring of Dr Nakarawa’s wife and stepsons, which the tribunal heard did not follow the usual recruitment procedures.
It was alleged that a position was created and advertised in a manner that matched his wife’s qualifications, despite medical advice and in contradiction to an earlier policy decision by the Minister for Justice and Cabinet relating to positions determined through a Job Evaluation Exercise.
Another set of complaints involved claims of abuse of office. These included allegations that some employees within the FCS were subjected to unfair treatment, including demotions or dismissals without proper notice or an opportunity to respond.
The tribunal also examined allegations that Dr Nakarawa authorised the use of funds for personal purposes.
After completing its investigation, the tribunal found the allegations of nepotism and abuse of office to be substantiated.
“The tribunal concluded that Dr Nakarawa’s actions reflected poor leadership and amounted to misconduct, which undermined public confidence in the Fiji Corrections Service and brought disrepute to the institution.”
