Fiji Independent Commission against Corruption is investigating eight Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) Members of Parliament for allegations of breaching the Parliamentary Remuneration Act.

The MPs who are being investigated include Adi Litia Qionibaravi, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, Mosese Bulitavu, Simione Rasova, Ratu Suliano Matanitobua, Aseri Radrodro, Salote Radrodro and Peceli Vosanibola.

FijiFirst’s parliamentarian Vijendra Prakash is also being investigated.

Armed with a search warrant, FICAC officials yesterday spent about an hour at the SODELPA headquarters, 66 McGregor Road, Suva.

Secretary-General to Parliament Viniana Namosimalua lodged a complaint alleging MPs claimed accommodation and travel allowances when they were not eligible.

A SODELPA statement yesterday said a search warrant was issued to obtain information and documentation relating to party membership, registration relating to residential addresses of certain SODELPA Members of Parliament in relation to a complaint regarding alleged breaches of the Parliamentary Remuneration Act of 2014.

SODELPA staff members including general secretary Emele Duituturaga, acting vice presidents and party leader Sitiveni Rabuka cooperated with FICAC officers.

“The party trusts that the legal system will uphold the principles of natural justice and that everyone is innocent until proven guilty,” Ms Duituturaga said.

“We assure our members and supporters that the party upholds the principles of accountability and transparency, and in that regard, we will fully cooperate with authorities as required before the law.”

She said the party was now focused on assisting members to prepare for the 2020/2021 Budget debate on July 17.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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