The former Manager and Senior Economic Planning Officer of the Higher Salaries Commission today told the Suva High Court that former Deputy General Manager of Fiji National Provident Fund Foana Nemani did not have the sole authority to approve responsibility allowance for former FNPF CEO Olota Rokovunisei.
FICAC lawyer, Rashmi Aslam cross examined Amaleini Kuruvakadua in Nemani’s trial this morning.
Kuruvakadua said the Higher Salaries Commission decides on the base salaries plus all allowances and benefits of the office holders payable during their term under the contract.
She said the Higher Salaries Commission has the sole responsibility to determine remuneration of government senior executives and no one can change or alter the amount of remuneration determined.
She said Rokovunisei approved payment of $20,000 to Nemani without the approval of the FNPF board or Higher Salaries Commission.
She also revealed that Nemani approved $50,000 for Rokovunisei, yet under their contacts they were not entitled to responsibility allowances.
Meanwhile, FNPF CEO Aisake Taito is taking the stand this hour.
Nemani is charged with one count of extortion by public officer and one count of abuse of office.
Nemani was reported to have gone to New Zealand for medical treatment in 2011.
Story by: Gwen McGoon & Filipe Naikaso
