Narube: Political interference weakens fight against corruption

Unity Fiji party leader Savenaca Narube says political interference in independent institutions risks weakening Fiji’s ability to tackle corruption.

Speaking in an interview with New Zealand’s Radio Tarana, Mr Narube called for stronger safeguards to protect institutions responsible for investigating corruption and administering justice.

“The independence of institutions had weakened and Government must respect the role of bodies established to operate independently,” Mr Narube said.

He said allowing institutions to carry out their responsibilities without political influence was critical to achieving their objectives and maintaining public confidence.

Mr Narube said the public was beginning to see cases involving alleged corruption reach the Court.

However, he questioned whether an independent anti-corruption body could effectively carry out its responsibilities if it was perceived to have become politicised.

“The existing anti-corruption institution still had an opportunity to succeed if its independence was protected.”

Mr Narube said the appointment of the institution’s leadership also needed to be conducted objectively to maintain public confidence.

He warned that if the institution became a “playground for politicians”, another option would be to strengthen the Fiji Police Force’s capacity to investigate corruption.

Mr Narube suggested establishing a dedicated Police division to investigate corruption, although he also acknowledged concerns about the Police itself being compromised.

He called for stronger safeguards to protect the independence of institutions, including the judiciary and anti-corruption bodies, from political influence.

Mr Narube’s comments come amid public debate over the independence and effectiveness of Fiji’s key institutions and the mechanisms used to investigate and prosecute corruption.