20 Jan 2006

Independent team to investigate CEO of Fiji home affairs ministry

9:27 am on 20 January 2006

Fiji's Public Service Commission will appoint an independent investigation team to inquire into allegations that the chief executive of the ministry of home affairs, Lesi Korovavala, conspired to incite the overthrow the of the military commander last week.

Radio Legend reports that this has been confirmed by the chairman of the commission, Stuart Hugget, who says that after considering the complaint lodged by the military, the PSC's disciplinary committee has decided on a full investigation.

Mr Hugget says the independent team will carry out the investigation and, if necessary, lay charges.

He says the military will be asked to come forward with its evidence that Mr Korovavala was involved in trying to cause a rift between the government and the military.

Mr Korovavala will also be given a chance to prove his innocence.

The military has asked the PSC to remove him from his position as chief executive of home affairs.

It says Mr Korovavala held meetings with the former Land Force Commander, Lt Col Baledrokadroka, to get his support to overthrow the commander, Commodore Bainimarama.