Author: admin_fijitimes

Senior Education and Anti-Corruption Officer, Mr Inoke Drawe, recently attended the Bose ni Tikina o Burebasaga (District Council Meeting), where he engaged community representatives on issues surrounding integrity and accountability at the grassroots level. During the session, Mr Drawe outlined the functions and responsibilities of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), placing particular emphasis on safeguarding public resources. Discussions also highlighted common cases involving the misuse of government-funded development grants, along with practical ways communities can detect and prevent financial abuse. Participants were further guided through FICAC’s complaint lodgement procedures, with strong encouragement to practice openness and report concerns…

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Debate in Parliament on Friday highlighted growing concerns over Fiji’s transition from an open taxi rank system to a regulated base allocation framework, with questions raised about access, affordability, and the potential impact on drivers’ livelihoods. Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, acknowledged that some taxi operators are struggling to obtain base letters under the new system. He told Parliament that existing operators have until 30 September 2027 to secure approved bases within their designated areas. Tuisawau stressed that the transition period allows taxi drivers to continue operating under the current open system while the…

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The case involving former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho has been transferred to the High Court for trial. The two appeared before Magistrate Yogesh Prasad this morning.  Both accused elected to have their case heard in the High Court after charges were amended and legal discussions between the State and defence counsel. Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku indicated that the State is not withdrawing the charges and supported the transfer, noting that the seriousness of the allegations warrants consideration by the higher court.  Defence Counsel Devanesh Sharma did not object to the amended…

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City of Parramatta has been recognised as a Gold Partner of Sustainability Advantage, the first council in Sydney to reach this status, setting the benchmark for outstanding leadership and achievements in environmental practices. The program, delivered by the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy and the Environment and Water (DCEEW), supports medium to large organisations on initiatives that make a positive impact to the community. City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said Council’s environmental initiatives make sure the community and environment remains top of mind. “We’re proud to set the gold standard in sustainability, not only within our…

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