Sacking of Nakarawa's wife from FCS sparks fairness row
"This action raises serious concerns about procedural fairness and the motivations driving such decisions," he said.
Thursday 10 April 2025 | 12:19
Corrections officers during their monthly parade at the Fiji Corrections Service in Naboro.
Suspended Commissioner of the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS), Jalesi Nakarawa, confirmed yesterday that his wife, nurse practitioner Vakaloloma Mocevakaca Nakarawa, has been dismissed from her role.
Ms Nakarawa's appointment came under public scrutiny in recent weeks following allegations of nepotism, prompting an investigation by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).
Despite being formally cleared by FICAC, Mr Nakarawa claims his wife was abruptly dismissed by Acting Corrections Commissioner Sevuloni Naucukidi without due process or justification.
Related stories
"This action raises serious concerns about procedural fairness and the motivations driving such decisions," he said.
Mr Nakarawa questioned the integrity of the public s e r vice system, warning that the arbitrary removal of officers cleared of wrongdoing undermines institutional trust and stability.
He also confirmed receiving a letter from FICAC exonerating him of any misconduct in the appointment of his wife.
The letter stated that under article 130(7)(a) of the 2013 Constitution, the FCS Commissioner has the authority to appoint staff, and that all standard protocols-such as advertising the role and interviewing candidates-were followed. It further stated Ms Nakarawa was the outstanding candidate.
Efforts to obtain comments from Acting Commissioner Naucukidi were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj
