FCOSS calls for accountability after COI review by ODPP ends without charges

The Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) has called for greater accountability and independent oversight after the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) concluded there was insufficient evidence to lay criminal charges arising from complaints linked to the Commission of Inquiry (COI).

FCOSS programme manager Josaia Tokoni said the outcome raised serious questions about the use of public funds, given the substantial cost involved in conducting the inquiry.

He said the funds could have been directed towards essential social services and development priorities that would have directly benefited communities.

“These funds could have been used for critical services that people urgently need,” Mr Tokoni said.

He questioned whether spending related to the COI, including procurement of services, was approved through proper processes in line with the Financial Management Act.

“We now need to ask how this spending was approved, whether correct procedures were followed, and whether any cost-benefit analysis was undertaken,” he said.

Mr Tokoni also questioned what tangible benefits, if any, were delivered to citizens through the inquiry, given the ODPP’s decision that the evidence did not meet the criminal threshold required for prosecution.

“This is why FCOSS has consistently called for independent and citizen oversight mechanisms across government institutions,” he said.

The ODPP confirmed it had completed its review of 12 files submitted by the Fiji Police Force for legal advice.

One file, relating to State v Barbara Malimali, had earlier been closed and returned with a decision not to charge due to insufficient evidence.

Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga has reiterated that the ODPP operates independently under the Constitution and that the Government respects its decisions.

“The ODPP is an independent organ of the State, and the Government remains committed to promoting and protecting the rule of law,” Mr Turaga said.