IMMIGRATION Minister Viliame Naupoto has warned that immigration systems are inherently vulnerable to corruption, urging officers to uphold integrity in the exercise of their authority.
Speaking at the launch of the Fiji Immigration Induction Program, Mr Naupoto said decisions made by immigration officials often carried life-changing consequences making the system susceptible to undue influence.
“When you decide whether someone can enter, work or live in Fiji, that decision impacts their entire life,” he said.
“That is where corruption can begin.”
He shared a personal account from his time as Director of Immigration, recounting an attempted bribe involving an envelope filled with cash. He declined the offer, later telling staff not to “allow people to buy your peace of mind”.
Mr Naupoto said a “formula for corruption” was temptation and opportunity.
“While temptation must be addressed through personal integrity, opportunities for corruption often arise from weak systems and processes.
“Leaders must ensure there are no gaps that allow opportunity.”
He said immigration officers wielded both authority defined by law and power with the ability to act.
The minister warned that misuse of either could erode public trust.
Mr Naupoto also called for transparency, accountability and fairness in decision-making, noting that trust is earned when laws are applied consistently.
“Without trust, even the best policies will fail.”
He added that respect, both within the organisation and towards the public, was essential to sustaining the credibility of the immigration system.
