Two years on, Walesi $80m probe still with FICAC

Two years on, the $80 million Walesi mismanagement probe is still awaiting findings from the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).

Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica says the case is now solely in the hands of the anti-corruption agency, while the Public Accounts Committee has also raised queries.

Speaking to reporters after yesterday’s Cabinet meeting, Mr Kamikamica, who was Communications Minister when the audit was handed over in late 2024, said the matter was now solely in FICAC’s hands.

“It’s really in the court of FICAC to investigate,” he said.

“When we did that investigation almost two years ago, there were some concerns there. But like with any investigation, it requires proper investigation.”

The audit found the Government spent $123.6 million on the digital television provider between 2015 and 2022, with an estimated $80 million, or about 68 per cent, deemed wastage and mismanagement under the former FijiFirst Government.

Mr Kamikamica revealed the Public Accounts Committee had also raised queries on the case.

“I’m aware that the Public Accounts Committee had made some queries. So, let’s hope we get some findings soon.”

Current Minister for Policing and Communications Ioane Naivalurua confirmed in Parliament last month, following questions from Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu, that the case remained with FICAC.

Questions sent to FICAC by this newspaper remain unanswered.