Senior lawyer Tanya Waqanika charged over alleged political party Facebook post

Senior lawyer Tanya Waqanika has been charged by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) for allegedly making a public social media post opposing a political party, an offence FICAC says falls under the Political Parties Act.

Waqanika is accused of posting comments on her Facebook page on April 19 last year that allegedly indicated opposition to the Social Democratic Liberal Party.

FICAC claims the post breached Section 14(7) of the Act, which restricts certain forms of public political activity.

The particulars of offence stated: "TANYA WAQANIIKA, on or about 19 April 2024 at Suva in the Central Division, being a public officer namely a board member of Investment Fili and Telecom Fiji Limited respectively, publicly indicated opposition for SODELPA, a political party registered under the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act 2013, by posting opposing comments about SODELPA on her Facebook post dated 19th April 2024."

She appeared before Senior Magistrate Sufia Hamza in Suva this afternoon for her first call, represented by lawyer Barbara Malimali.

Ms Malimali informed the court that the defence will be filing an application in the High Court to stay the proceedings.

Waqanika was granted bail on a bond of $2,500 with two sureties and strict conditions, including reporting requirements.

FICAC confirmed that the charge was laid following consultation with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The case has been adjourned to January 26, 2026.