Harassment Claim Probe Completed

The independent investigation into harassment allegations during the crowing night of the Hibiscus festival has been completed.

The findings of the investigation is now with the Ministry of Local Government for review.

This was confirmed by Minister for Local Government Maciu Nalumisa who did not disclose any further information from the findings.

However Mr Nalumisa confirmed that the investigation ensured that all relevant parties, including committee members and witnesses, were interviewed in line with council policies.

It was conducted by an independent panel comprising the Chair of Suva City Council, an independent legal expert, an external event management and public safety specialist, and a representative from a human rights or gender-based violence advocacy organisation.

“We are committed to ensuring the investigation was impartial, transparent, and conducted professionally, in full compliance with all legal and regulatory standards,” Mr Nalumisa said.

“A separate police investigation is ongoing, and the Ministry will cooperate fully with law enforcement as the process continues,” he said.

Minister for Local Government Maciu Nalumisa. Photo: Parliament of Fiji

Background

Allegations of alleged sexual harassment surfaced after a contestant claimed she was made to feel uncomfortable where allegations of ‘groping’ surfaced.

This was alleged to have happened during the post hibiscus crowning cocktail at the festival’s VIP tent.

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