USP to conduct separate independent investigations into allegations of abuse of office

A separate independent investigation will now be conducted into allegations of abuse of office against some current and former staff of the University of the South Pacific.

The allegations are laid out in a leaked confidential report which was presented to the Executive Committee of the USP Council in March this year.

The report was put together by USP’s new Vice‑Chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia.

While an investigation is already being carried out by FICAC in Fiji, the USP Council has today said that reflecting the regional nature of the University, they have unanimously resolved that a separate independent investigation will be conducted on its behalf.

The USP Council made the decision at its 88th meeting in Port Vila, Vanuatu yesterday and today.

Details on who will carry out that investigation and when it will start have not been revealed with the USP Council only saying it will provide further updates to the University community in due course.

The USP Council also says that it supports the investigation currently being undertaken by FICAC.

The report details allegations of quick appointments and contract renewals for some senior members of the university - many of them work at the Laucala campus in Fiji.

It also details alleged breach of policy in past financial decisions as well as questionable promotions and questionable allowances for some staff.

ADVERTISEMENT