Press Release
FICAC and Kiribati Strengthen Regional Cooperation Through Anti-Corruption Agreement
Posted by Media Team 23 July 2026
The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) and the Public Service Office (PSO) of the Government of the Republic of Kiribati today formalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a significant milestone in strengthening regional cooperation to prevent and combat corruption across the Pacific.
The agreement, which reflects the shared commitment of both institutions to advancing transparency, accountability, integrity and good governance, while supporting the effective implementation of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC).
The MoU was signed by the President of the Republic of Kiribati, His Excellency Taneti Maamau and FICAC Acting Commissioner, Ms Lavi Rokoika at Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi.
In delivering his address, President Maamau described the agreement as a historic milestone in the relationship between Kiribati and Fiji.
"It is a great honour for the Republic of Kiribati to stand together with our esteemed neighbour and close friend, the Republic of Fiji, on this historic occasion and important milestone," President Maamau said.
"Today, we sign an agreement that is of critical importance to the future of both our nations. This partnership is built on our shared dedication to honesty, transparency and accountability in public office and across our nations."
President Maamau said the challenges of the modern world do not stop at national borders, noting that financial crime, corruption and unethical practices require strong regional partnerships and coordinated responses.
"This partnership reflects the true spirit of the Blue Pacific Continent. By joining hands, Kiribati and Fiji are demonstrating that we are stronger together. We are sending a clear message that our region is actively building a secure, fair and transparent environment for our citizens and for international partners seeking to invest in our future development."
FICAC Acting Commissioner Ms Rokoika said President Maamau's presence at the signing demonstrated the high priority the Government of Kiribati places on integrity, accountable leadership and the responsible stewardship of public resources.
"Today's Memorandum of Understanding represents our commitment to work together, exchange knowledge, strengthen institutional capability, share relevant experience, and support one another in the prevention and investigation of corruption," Acting Commissioner Rokoika said.
"Effective cooperation is not built upon one institution speaking and another listening. It is built upon mutual respect, professional candour and a genuine willingness to learn from both our successes and our challenges."
Acting Commissioner Rokoika emphasised that the value of the agreement would be measured by the practical outcomes achieved through the partnership.
"The true value of this Memorandum of Understanding will not be measured by today's ceremony, but by what follows—the relationships built between our officers, the practical assistance exchanged, the training delivered, and the improvements our people ultimately see in the integrity of public administration."
She also acknowledged the leadership of President Maamau and the commitment of the Government of Kiribati, together with the efforts of the Public Service Office and the Anti-Corruption Unit, in bringing the partnership to fruition.
The MoU establishes a framework for voluntary cooperation between FICAC and the Kiribati Public Service Office through the exchange of anti-corruption policies, research, best practices and public education initiatives. It also provides for technical assistance, capacity building, joint participation in seminars, workshops and conferences, and collaboration on transnational corruption and money laundering matters, in accordance with the laws of both countries.
The agreement safeguards the statutory independence of both institutions while ensuring that cooperation remains voluntary, respectful of each agency's legal mandate and free from operational interference. It also contains provisions relating to confidentiality and the protection of information, while promoting inclusive participation in anti-corruption initiatives through the meaningful involvement of women, youth, persons with disabilities and other under-represented groups.
The Memorandum of Understanding will remain in force for an initial period of five years, with provisions for periodic review and automatic renewal by mutual agreement.
Through this partnership, FICAC and the Kiribati Public Service Office reaffirm their shared commitment to strengthening integrity systems, promoting ethical public service and advancing good governance for a more transparent, accountable and resilient Pacific region.
Also present at the signing ceremony were the Secretary to the Cabinet of Kiribati, Dr Naomi Biribo; the Secretary of the Kiribati Public Service Office, Ms Ritite Tekiau; and the Kiribati High Commissioner to Fiji, His Excellency Mr Tukabu Tauati.
