Concerns raised over role of independent commissions

A villager from Naroi has questioned the relevance of Fiji’s independent commissions, particularly the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), during a public consultation by the Constitutional Review Commission at Naroi Village Hall, Moala, Lau.

The consultation in Moala yesterday brought together villagers, community leaders and commission officials as part of nationwide discussions on constitutional reform and governance.

During the session, villager Vuli Koyamaibole questioned the purpose of some independent bodies, saying many ordinary citizens still do not understand their role or effectiveness.

“What purpose does it serve?” he asked the panel.

“People in the villages hear about these commissions all the time, but many of us do not fully understand how they help ordinary citizens.”

Vuli Koyamaibole.

Photo: Supplied

He specifically raised concerns about FICAC, suggesting its functions may overlap with those of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).

“Why can’t they just remove FICAC when the DPP is already there?” he said.

“If the ODPP can deal with legal matters and prosecutions, then people want to know why another body is needed. Is it helping the people or creating more confusion?”

Mr Koyamaibole said rural communities want greater transparency and accountability from independent institutions, especially those funded by taxpayers.

“These are the questions people are asking in the villages,” he said.

“We want clear explanations because many people feel disconnected from these offices based in Suva. Villagers want to know if these institutions are really protecting the people or just existing on paper.”

The Constitutional Review Commission is conducting nationwide consultations to gather public views on constitutional issues, governance structures and the effectiveness of state institutions.

For many villagers in Naroi, the session provided a rare opportunity to directly question national bodies and raise concerns about governance.

“We don’t always get the chance to speak openly like this,” Mr Koyamaibole said.

“If the Constitution belongs to the people, then the people should be able to question the institutions created under it.”