Fiji’s political parties are being encouraged to place integrity and accountability at the centre of their leadership as the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) expands its public awareness efforts.

FICAC, through its Good Governance Unit, held its first-ever Anti-Corruption Awareness Talanoa Session with a political party in Fiji today, engaging the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA).

The initiative forms part of the Commission’s broader effort to engage all registered political parties on corruption prevention, ethical leadership and the importance of political organisations in maintaining public confidence in democratic institutions.

The engagement was conducted under section 12 of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption Act 2007 and also recognises constitutional rights under section 23, including the rights to participate in political activities and to free, fair and regular elections.

The session was led by Chief Education and Anti-Corruption Officer Amit Sami, with support from Manager Complaints and Governance Kolora Naliva and Senior Education and Anti-Corruption Officer Inoke Drawe.

Participants were provided with an overview of FICAC’s role within Fiji’s governance framework, including its responsibilities under the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, the Constitution, the FICAC Act, the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act 2013 and the Electoral Act 2014.

The Commission highlighted the wider impact of corruption, stressing that it extends beyond breaking the law and can undermine development, public trust and economic progress.

Participants were reminded that resources directed towards infrastructure, education, health and economic development must be protected from misuse if they are to deliver meaningful benefits to the people of Fiji.

The session also covered offences and obligations associated with elections and political parties.

These included bribery, undue influence, vote buying, the misuse of state resources, interference with lawful campaign activities, racial and religious vilification, breaches of campaign rules and the manipulation of the national voter register.

Political party office holders were also reminded of their legal obligations to disclose assets, liabilities and business interests.

FICAC stressed that protecting the integrity of elections is a collective responsibility involving political parties, candidates, voters, public institutions and communities.

The Commission further reaffirmed that it operates independently and without political interference, with its mandate applying equally to all.

Political parties were encouraged to make integrity a clear commitment in their leadership and manifestos, demonstrating to voters their willingness to uphold ethical standards and lead with accountability.

FICAC’s Good Governance Unit will continue conducting awareness programmes and talanoa sessions with registered political parties, communities, civil society organisations, voters, government entities and other stakeholders.

The first engagement with a political party marks a new step in FICAC’s efforts to strengthen transparency, accountability and public awareness as Fiji continues to safeguard the integrity of its democratic processes.