Questions have been raised following the poor turnout at a public consultation at Suvavou House yesterday.

The consultation to review the establishment of the Anti-Corruption Division of the Magistrates Court and the Anti-Corruption Division of the High Court under the 2021 Act aimed to gather input from the public, but less than 30 people attended, including the Acting Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) David Toganivalu, who questioned the absence of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).

During the consultation, The Fiji Times journalist Pauliasi Mateboto, raised suggestions to the legal team and questioned how valuable their submission would be without the views of the public.

The Fiji Times journalist Pauliasi Mateboto.

He also suggested ways to improve the consultation process, such as holding a second date and extensively advertising it to attract more people.

The legal team said the consultation was advertised in The Fiji Times on May 13 and on the Fiji Government Facebook page.

They assured that all suggestions made would be submitted, although they were unable to provide the number of cases the division had dealt with in the past due to the relevant department’s absence.

Mr Mateboto’s suggestions and questions highlighted the need for extensive public participation in the decision-making process.

The legal team promised to consider the suggestions and take them on board, indicating a willingness to improve the consultation process in the future.

Story by: jone.salusalu@fijisun.com.fj