FICAC has established a taskforce to investigate findings from an audit concerning Walesi, highlighting the government’s disbursement of $123.6 million for the DTT Project from 2015 to 2022. This is classified as a case of national interest by FICAC.
The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has initiated a critical investigation concerning Walesi following an audit’s findings. This investigation comes after the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, provided FICAC with the audit report. It was revealed during a recent parliamentary session that the government allocated a significant sum of $123.6 million to the Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) Project, which supports the operations of Walesi PTE LTD from 2015 to 2022. FICAC has deemed this matter of high national importance. Commissioner Barbara Malimali has assigned a specialized taskforce to spearhead these investigations, led by Assistant Manager Investigation – Economic Crimes Unit Alifereti Wakanivesi, commencing immediately.
The background of this investigation lies in the government’s extensive financial support towards the Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) Project, which aimed to improve and modernize broadcasting services in Fiji through the Walesi platform. Concerns surfaced regarding the management and utilization of the allocated funds, prompting the audit that unearthed potential irregularities. The establishment of FICAC’s taskforce indicates a stringent approach towards addressing any allegations of corruption or mismanagement in public funds, reflecting the government’s commitment to accountability and transparency in financial governance.
In conclusion, the FICAC’s investigation into Walesi highlights the importance of accountability in government funding and the necessity for transparency in public enterprises. The considerable funds allocated to the DTT Project require thorough scrutiny to ensure that public resources are managed effectively and that no corruption has occurred. The taskforce’s efforts led by Alifereti Wakanivesi aim to restore public trust in the management of national projects.
Original Source: www.fijitimes.com.fj
