In a move designed to weed out corrupt practices in public offices, the Government of Fiji has initiated disciplinary action against eight civil servants alleged to have breached the Code of Conduct and Values of the Public Service Commission.
An official notification issued on June 7 said that the Commission had taken action against the erring officials after hearing cases relating to bribery, misappropriation of funds, assault, unprofessional behaviour, insubordination and implementing a decision without proper authorisation.
It is understood that about 85 cases of malpractices are reported to have occurred in the country’s public service in recent times, of which 12 cases are being examined by the Commission and the Tribunal.
There are 46 cases awaiting submissions, while 27 cases are before a Court of law, the notification said.
“Disciplinary proceedings in the civil service begin with the respective Ministry or Department issuing a notice to the officer reported to have breached the PSC Code of Conduct and PSC Values,” the notification said.
Disciplinary action against an officer can entail termination from service, transfer from the ministry or department, demotion, reprimand, fine and forfeit of all or part of the officer’s remuneration during their suspension.
“The Commission has a zero tolerance policy on any officer who has misappropriated government funds. Termination from the service is the final decision of the Commission,” the notification said.
Structural changes
Meanwhile, the Government is considering a number of amendments to its rules, regulations and procedures to streamline the administration and make civil servants more accountable, PSC Permanent Secretary Parmesh Chand told a Workshop held at the Fiji Police Academy in Navsova on June 7.
“The structure (of departments) and old polices may need changes. Such changes and reforms offer an opportunity to create stronger connections and explore new ways of doing things,” he said.
He commended the ‘positive activities’ of the Fijian Police such as ‘Blue Light’ and ‘Kibbutz,’ that allowed continued strengthening of partnership between the Police and the people.
“I believe that new policies are essential to address transnational offences such as cybercrime. Despite the tireless efforts of a majority of officers who are committed to crime prevention, a few corrupt colleagues still tarnish the reputation of the entire Force,” Mr Chand said.
Brigadier General Iowane Naivalurua briefed the delegates at the Workshop regarding his visit to Singapore along with a delegation of police officers and the discussions they had with officials in that country.
“The visit and discussions will help us to improve the operations of the Fijian Police Force,” he said.
