code of conduct bill 2016 (bill no. 22 of 2016)€¦ · for an act to establish a code of conduct...

CODE OF CONDUCT BILL 2016(BILL NO. 22 OF 2016)

________

CLAUSES

PART 1—PRELIMINARY 1. Short title and commencement 2. Interpretation

PART 2—ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY COMMISSION 3. Functions and powers of the Commission 4. Guidelines and directions 5. Commissiontomaintainconfidentiality 6. Annual report

PART 3—CODE OF CONDUCT 7. Code of Conduct 8. Compliance

PART 4—MONITORING COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT OF CODE OF CONDUCT

9. Monitoring compliance 10. Complaints 11. Furtherinformationandverificationbythecomplainant 12. InvestigationbytheCommission 13. Malicious complaints 14. Commission to require explanation 15. Right to access material 16. Disclosureofcertainmattersnottoberequired 17. Proceedings of the Commission 18. Decision after investigation 19. EffectofinvestigationbytheCommission

PART 5—PROTECTION OF COMPLAINANTS 20. Immunityformakingcomplaints 21. Offenceoftakingdetrimentalaction 22. Order preventing detrimental action 23. Protectionofidentity 24. Protection forfeited in certain cases

PART 6—DECLARATION OF INCOME, ASSETS, OTHER INTERESTS AND LIABILITIES

25. Application of this Part 26. Statementofincome,assets,otherinterestsandliabilities

2

27. Disclosure of statement 28. Failure to provide statement

PART 7—MISCELLANEOUS 29. Regulations SCHEDULES

3

FOR AN ACT TO ESTABLISH A CODE OF CONDUCT AND FOR OTHER MATTERS AS PRESCRIBED UNDER SECTION 149 OF THE CONSTITUTION OF THE REPUBLIC OF FIJI

ENACTEDbytheParliamentoftheRepublicofFiji—

PART 1—PRELIMINARYShort title and commencement

1.—(1) ThisActmaybecitedastheCodeofConductAct2016.

(2) ThisActcomesintoforceonadateordatesappointedbytheMinisterbynoticepublishedintheGazette.

Interpretation2. In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires—

“appointing authority” means a person or entity which is responsible forappointingoradvisingontheappointmentofanypersontowhomaCodeofConductappliesorapersonorentitywhichhas theauthority to takedisciplinaryactionagainst,orremovefromoffice,anypersontowhomaCode of Conduct applies;

BILL NO. 22 OF 2016

A BILL

4 Code of Conduct— of 2016

“child”meansabiologicalchild,anadoptedchildorastepchildwhois—

(a) undertheageof18years;or

(b) over theageof18yearsandisdependentonhisorherparentforsupport;

“civilservice”hasthesamemeaninggiventotheterm‘publicservice’undersection 163(1) of the Constitution;

“CodeofConduct”meansaCodeofConductcontainedintheSchedules;

“Commission” means the Accountability and Transparency Commissionestablishedundersection121oftheConstitution;

“complainant”meansapersonwhohasmadeacomplainttotheCommissionunder section 10;

“complaint”meansacomplaintmadetotheCommissionundersection10;

“Constitution”meanstheConstitutionoftheRepublicofFiji;

“detrimentalaction”includesactioncausing,comprisingorinvolving—

(a) injury,damageorloss;

(b) intimidation or harassment;

(c) adverse discrimination, disadvantage or adverse treatment in relation toaperson’scareer,profession,employment,tradeorbusiness;

(d) anydisciplinaryaction;

(e) dismissal or having his or her services or employment dispensedwith or otherwise terminated; or

(f) a reprisal;

“disciplined force” has the same meaning given to that term under section163(1) of the Constitution;

“FICAC” means the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruptionestablished by the Fiji Independent Commission Against CorruptionPromulgation 2007 and continued in existence by section 115 of theConstitution;

“FNPF”meanstheFijiNationalProvidentFund;

“judicial officer” includes the Chief Justice, a Judge of the SupremeCourt,the President of the Court of Appeal, a Justice of Appeal, a Judge of the High Court, a Master of the High Court, the Chief Registrar, the Chief Magistrate,aMagistrate,otherjudicialofficersandmembersoftribunalsappointedbyorontheadviceoftheJudicialServicesCommission;

Code of Conduct— of 2016 5

“Minister”meanstheMinisterresponsiblefortheadministrationofthisAct;

“property” means real property and personal property of every descriptionwhethertangibleorintangible,whethersituatedinsideoroutsideFiji,andincludes—

(a) cash in a bank, building society, credit union or other financialinstitution;

(b) aninterestofanykindinproperty;and

(c) shares or interests in any business, company, partnership, trust orscheme;

“prosecutingauthority”meansFICAC,providedhoweverthatforanycomplaintagainst the Commissioner or theDeputy Commissioner of FICAC, theprosecutingauthorityistheDirectorofPublicProsecutions;

“publicofficial”meanstheholderofthefollowingoffices—

(a) anofficecreatedby,orcontinuedinexistence,undertheConstitution;

(b) anofficeinrespectofwhichtheConstitutionmakesprovision;

(c) anofficeroremployeeofanystatutoryauthorityorofanycommissionestablishedby,orcontinuedinexistence,undertheConstitution;

(d) anofficeinthecivilserviceandthedisciplinedforce;or

(e) anofficeestablishedbywrittenlaw,

butdoesnotincludeajudicialofficer,thePresident,thePrimeMinister,membersofParliament,amemberofastatutoryauthority,oramemberofacommissionestablishedby,orcontinuedinexistence,undertheConstitution,oranypersonto whom Schedule 1, 2, 3 or 4 applies;

“spouse”includesade facto partner; and

“statement”meansastatementmadeundersection26(1).

PART 2—ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY COMMISSIONFunctions and powers of the Commission

3. TheCommissionhassuchpower,authority,dutyandfunctionasprescribedinthisAct.

Guidelines and directions4. TheCommissionmayfromtimeto timeissueguidelinesanddirectionsfor the

performanceoftheCommission’sfunctionsandforthehandlingofcomplaints.


Commission to maintain confidentiality5.—(1) Anymember,staff,employee,agentorconsultantoftheCommissionmust

not,directlyorindirectly,makearecordof,discloseorcommunicatetoanypersonanyinformationacquiredintheperformanceoftheCommission’sfunctionsunderthisAct,unless—

(a) it is necessary to do so for the purpose of, or in connection with, theperformance of a function of the Commission under this Act;

(b) it is necessary to do so for the purposes of producing a document orgiving evidence to a court in the course of civil or criminal proceedings or proceedingsunderthisActoranyotherwrittenlaw;

(c) itisnecessarytodosoforreportingasuspectedoffencetotheprosecutingauthority,orassistingtheprosecutingauthorityinitsinvestigations;or

(d) itisnecessarytodosoforreportingabreachoftheCodeofConductbyanypersontotheappointingauthorityofthatperson.

(2) Anypersonwhobreachessubsection(1)commitsanoffenceandisliableuponconvictiontoafinenotexceeding$10,000ortoatermofimprisonmentnotexceeding5years,ortoboth.

Annual report6.—(1) TheCommissionmust,assoonaspracticableaftertheendofeachfinancial

year,publishanannualreportontheexerciseoftheCommission’sfunctionsunderthisActduringtheyear,andmustsubmitacopytotheMinisterwhomusttabletheannualreport in Parliament.

(2) TheannualreportpublishedbytheCommissionundersubsection(1)mustnotcontainthenamesofanycomplainantorofanypersonthesubjectofacomplaint,orspecificdetailsofanyparticularcomplaint.

PART 3—CODE OF CONDUCTCode of Conduct

7.—(1) In accordance with section 149(a) of the Constitution, the Codes of Conduct assetoutintheSchedulesareherebyestablished.

(2) TheCodeofConductprescribedinSchedule1appliestothePresident,PrimeMinister and all Ministers.

(3) TheCodeofConductcontained inSchedule2applies to theSpeaker,DeputySpeakerandallmembersofParliament.

(4) TheCodeofConductcontainedinSchedule3appliestoalljudicialofficers.

(5) TheCode ofConduct contained in Schedule 4 applies to allmembers of acommission establishedby, or continued in existence, under theConstitution and allmembersofastatutoryauthorityoraboardofastatutoryauthority.


(6) TheCodeofConductcontainedinSchedule5appliestoallpublicofficials.

(7) ForthepurposesofthissectionandSchedule1,a“Minister”includesanAssistantMinister and an Acting Minister.

Compliance8. EverypersontowhomaCodeofConductapplieshasadutytoconducthimselfor

herselfinaccordancewiththeCodeofConductandtokeephimselforherselfinformedoftheprovisionsoftherelevantCodeofConductandanyamendmentoftheCodeofConduct.

PART 4—MONITORING COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT OF CODE OF CONDUCT

Monitoring compliance9.—(1) TheCommissionmonitorscompliancewithaCodeofConductbyinvestigating

anycomplaintmadetotheCommissionunderthisActconcerninganallegedorsuspectednon-compliancewithaCodeofConductbyanypersontowhomaCodeofConductapplies.

(2) TheinvestigationofanycomplaintmadetotheCommissionconcerninganallegedorsuspectednon-compliancewithaCodeofConductbyanypersontowhomaCodeofConductappliesmustbedoneinaccordancewiththeproceduressetoutinthisAct.

Complaints10.—(1) AnypersonmaymakeacomplainttotheCommissionconcerninganalleged

orsuspectednon-compliancewiththeCodeofConductbyanypersontowhomaCodeof Conduct applies.

(2) Acomplaintundersubsection(1)mustbemadeinwriting.

(3) TheCommissionmust neither accept nor investigate any complaint from ananonymousperson.

(4) AnypersonwhoseekstomakeacomplaintagainstamemberoftheCommissionforanallegedorsuspectednon-compliancewiththeCodeofConductbythatmember,maymakeacomplainttotheChiefJustice.

(5) TheChief Justice, upon receipt of any complaint under subsection (4),mustinvestigateanysuchcomplaintinaccordancewiththeproceduressetoutunderthisActand the powers vested upon the Commission under this Act.

Further information and verification by the complainant11.—(1) Uponreceiptofacomplaint,theCommissionmustnotifythecomplainant

in writing of the receipt of the complaint.

(2) Uponreceiptofthecomplaint,theCommissionmayrequirethecomplainanttoprovide such further informationanddetails about the complaint as theCommissiondeems appropriate.


(3) TheCommissionmust verify that every complainant is a person, includingverificationoftheidentificationandaddressofthecomplainant.

(4) TheCommissionmay require the complainant to verify the complaint or anymattersreferredthereinbywayofastatutorydeclaration.

Investigation by the Commission12.—(1) TheCommissionmustinvestigateanycomplaintreceivedbytheCommission,

unless the Commission is of the opinion that—

(a) thecomplaint is trivial, frivolous,vexatious, lackinginsubstanceornotmade in good faith;

(b) thecomplaint ismaliciousor ispoliticallymotivatedor ismadefor thepurpose of discrediting, defaming, or causing reputational damage to, the personthesubjectofthecomplaint;

(c) thecomplainanthasdisclosedthenature,substanceordetailsofhisorhercomplaintorhasdisclosedthenameorofficeofthepersonthesubjectofthecomplainttoanyotherpersonorentityapartfromtheCommission;

(d) therehasbeensuchadelaybetweentheconductcomplainedofandthecomplainttotheCommissionastorenderaninvestigationunreasonable;

(e) thesubjectmatterofthecomplaintdoesnotcomewithinthescopeofthisAct;

(f) furtherinformationandverificationasrequiredbytheCommissionarenotprovidedbythecomplainant;

(g) the subject matter of the complaint has been the subject of a previouscomplaintthathasbeendismissedbytheCommission;or

(h) aninvestigationofthecomplaintwouldbeinappropriateorinexpedient.

(2) TheCommissionmay,withouthavingtoseekanyexplanationfromthepersonthesubjectofthecomplaint,summarilydismissacomplaintforanyreasonsetoutinsubsection(1).

(3) IftheCommissionsummarilydismissesacomplaintunderthissection,thentheCommissionmustnotifythecomplainantinwritingandprovidereasonsforitsdecision.

(4) IftheCommissionbelievesthatacomplaintwhichhasbeensummarilydismissedunderthissectionwasmaliciousorwaspoliticallymotivatedagainstapersonthesubjectof the complaint or was made for the purpose of discrediting or defaming, or causing reputationaldamageto,apersonthesubjectofthecomplaint,thentheCommissionmustrefer the complaint to theprosecuting authority for theprosecuting authority to takesuchcriminalproceedingundersection13orunderanyotherwrittenlawagainstthecomplainantastheprosecutingauthoritymaydeemappropriate.


Malicious complaints13. Anypersonwhomakesacomplaintwhichismaliciousorispoliticallymotivated

againstthepersonthesubjectofthecomplaintorismadeforthepurposeofdiscreditingordefaming,orcausingreputationaldamageto,thepersonthesubjectofthecomplaintcommitsanoffenceandisliableuponconvictiontoafinenotexceeding$10,000ortoatermofimprisonmentnotexceeding5years,ortoboth.

Commission to require explanation14.—(1) If theCommission, after considerationofacomplaint,makesadecision

undersection12nottosummarilydismissacomplaint,theCommissionmustreferthesubstanceof thecomplaint inwriting to thepersonthesubjectof thecomplaint,andmust require that person to provide a written explanation of the matters referred to in thecomplaintwithinsuchtime,notlessthan14days,asspecifiedbytheCommission.

(2) TheCommissionmay,afterreceiptandconsiderationofthewrittenexplanationfromthepersonthesubjectofthecomplaint,summarilydismissacomplaintforanyofthereasonssetoutinsection12(1)withouttheneedforanyfurtherinvestigation.

(3) IftheCommissionsummarilydismissesacomplaintunderthissection,thentheCommissionmustnotifythecomplainantinwritingandprovidereasonsforitsdecision,andmustalsonotifythepersonthesubjectofthecomplaint.

(4) IftheCommissionbelievesthatacomplaintwhichhasbeensummarilydismissedunderthissectionwasmaliciousorwaspoliticallymotivatedagainstapersonthesubjectof the complaint or was made for the purpose of discrediting or defaming, or causing reputationaldamageto,apersonthesubjectofthecomplaint,thentheCommissionmustrefer the complaint to theprosecutingauthority for theprosecutingauthority to takesuchcriminalproceedingundersection13orunderanyotherwrittenlawagainstthecomplainantastheprosecutingauthoritymaydeemappropriate.

Right to access material15. Subjecttosection16,whencarryingoutaninvestigationofacomplaintwhich

hasnotbeensummarilydismissedbytheCommissionunderthisAct,theCommission—

(a) is entitled to full access at all convenient times to all minutes, records, contracts, documents, books, accounts and other material of anyGovernmentministryordepartment,thatrelatetoandarerelevanttotheinvestigation; and

(b) maytakeextractsfrom,ormakecopiesof,anysuchmaterial.

Disclosure of certain matters not to be required16.—(1) Whereapersonassertsthatthegivingofanyinformation,theansweringof

anyquestionortheproductionofanydocument,paperorthingislikelyto—

(a) prejudice the security, defence or international relations of the State(includingtheState’srelationswithanyotherStateorcountryorwithanyinternational organisation); or


(b) involve the disclosure of proceedings, deliberations or decisions ofCabinetorofanycommitteeofCabinetwhichrelatetomattersofasecretorconfidentialnatureandthedisclosureofwhichwouldbeinjurioustothepublicinterest,

thatpersonmustproduceacertificatesignedbytheAttorney-Generalandcertifyingthemattersspecifiedinparagraphs (a) or (b).

(2) Upontheproductionofacertificatereferredtoinsubsection(1),theCommissionmustnotrequiretheinformationoranswertobegivenor,asthecasemaybe,thedocument,paperorthingtobeproduced.

(3) TheCommissionmustnotrequireproductionofanydocument,paperorthingorrequireanswerstoanyquestionfromanypersonifawrittenlawauthorisesorrequiresthewithholdingofanydocument,paperorthingortherefusaltoansweranyquestionbythatperson.

(4) IfthepersonthesubjectofacomplaintistheAttorney-General,thenacertificateundersubsection(1)mustbesignedbythePrimeMinister.

Proceedings of the Commission17.—(1) AnyinvestigationofanycomplaintbytheCommissionunderthisActmust

beconductedinprivate.

(2) Anymember,staff,employee,agentorconsultantoftheCommissionmustnotdiscloseorreporttoanypersonorentityanydetailsconcerninganinvestigationofanycomplaintbytheCommissionunderthisAct,includingthenameofthecomplainantandthenameofthepersonthesubjectofacomplaint.


(4) NothinginthisActcompelstheCommissiontoholdanyhearingandnoperson,otherthanthepersonwhoseconductisbeinginvestigated,isentitledasofrighttobeheardbytheCommission.

Decision after investigation18.—(1) Uponcompletingitsinvestigationintoanycomplaintwhichhasnotbeen

summarilydismissedbytheCommissionunderthisAct,theCommissionmust,bywrittennotice, either—

(a) dismiss the complaint and provide a copy of the written notice to thecomplainantandthepersonthesubjectofthecomplaint;or

(b) referthecomplainttotheprosecutingauthorityandtheappointingauthorityofthepersonthesubjectofthecomplaintiftheCommissiondecidesthatthe conduct of that person warrants further investigation, and must provide acopyofthewrittennoticetothecomplainantandthepersonthesubjectof the complaint.


(2) IftheCommissionrefersacomplaintundersubsection(1)(b)–

(a) theappointingauthorityof theperson thesubjectof thecomplaintmaytakesuchdisciplinaryactionagainstthatpersonastheappointingauthoritymaydeemappropriate;and

(b) theprosecutingauthoritymayinstitutesuchcriminalproceedingsagainstthepersonthesubjectofthecomplaintastheprosecutingauthoritymaydeem appropriate.

Effect of investigation by the Commission19. TheresultofanyinvestigationunderthisActbytheCommissionisnotabarto

proceedingsinrespectofthesameconductunderanyotherwrittenlaw.

PART 5—PROTECTION OF COMPLAINANTSImmunity for making complaints

20. SubjecttotheprovisionsofthisAct,apersonwhomakesacomplaintunderthisActconcerninganallegedorsuspectednon-compliancewithaCodeofConductbyanyperson—

(a) incursnocivilorcriminalliabilityfordoingso;and

(b) isnot,fordoingso,liable—

(i) toanydisciplinaryaction;or

(ii) foranybreachofdutyofsecrecyorconfidentiality(whetherornotimposedbyawrittenlaw)applicabletothatperson.

Offence of taking detrimental action21.—(1) Anypersonwhotakesorthreatenstotakeanydetrimentalactionagainst

anotherpersonbecauseanyonehasmade,orintendstomake,acomplaintunderthisActforanallegedorsuspectednon-compliancewithaCodeofConductbyanypersoncommitsanoffenceandisliableuponconvictiontoafinenotexceeding$10,000ortoatermofimprisonmentnotexceeding5years,ortoboth.

(2) Anypersonwho—

(a) attemptstocommitanoffencecreatedbysubsection(1);or

(b) intendingthatanoffencecreatedbysubsection(1)becommitted,incitesanother person to commit that offence,

commitsanoffenceandisliableuponconvictiontoafinenotexceeding$10,000ortoatermofimprisonmentnotexceeding5years,ortoboth.

Order preventing detrimental action22.—(1) Anypersonwhobelievesthatdetrimentalactionhasbeentakenormaybe

takenagainsthimorherinreprisalforacomplaintmadebyhimorherunderthisActtotheCommissionmaymakeareporttotheCommission.


(2) IftheCommission,uponreceiptofareportundersubsection(1)issatisfiedthatapersonhastakenorintendstotakedetrimentalactionagainstthepersonmakingthereportunder subsection (1) in reprisal for a complaintmade to theCommission, theCommissionmaymakeanapplicationtotheHighCourtforan—

(a) orderthatthepersonwhotookthedetrimentalactionremedythataction;or

(b) injunction and such other orders against the person who has taken orintends to take the detrimental action in such terms as theHighCourtthinksappropriate.

Protection of identity23.—(1) Apersonmustnotdiscloseanyinformationthatmightidentifyortendto

identifyanyoneasapersonwhomadeacomplaintunderthisActunless—

(a) the person who made the complaint under this Act consents to the disclosure ofinformationthatmightidentifyortendtoidentifyhimorher;

(b) the disclosure is made in accordance with an order of a court; or

(c) thedisclosureismadeforthepurposesofanycriminalproceedingbytheprosecutingauthorityorforthepurposesofanydisciplinaryactionbyanappointingauthority.

(2) Anypersonwhodisclosesanyinformationcontrarytosubsection(1)commitsanoffenceandisliableuponconvictiontoafinenotexceeding$10,000ortoatermofimprisonmentnotexceeding5years,ortoboth.

(3) ApersonmustnotdiscloseanyinformationthatmightidentifyortendtoidentifyanyoneasapersonthesubjectofacomplaintunderthisActunless—

(a) the person the subject of the complaint under thisAct consents to thedisclosureofinformationthatmightidentifyortendtoidentifyhimorher;

(b) the disclosure is made in accordance with an order of a court; or

(c) thedisclosureismadeforthepurposesofanycriminalproceedingbytheprosecutingauthorityorforthepurposesofanydisciplinaryactionbyanappointingauthority.

(4) Anypersonwhodisclosesanyinformationcontrarytosubsection(3)commitsanoffenceandisliableuponconvictiontoafinenotexceeding$10,000ortoatermofimprisonmentnotexceeding5years,ortoboth.

Protection forfeited in certain cases24. AnypersonwhohasmadeacomplaintunderthisActand—

(a) who fails, without reasonable excuse, to assist the Commission ininvestigating thecomplaint inanyway, including failing toprovide theCommissionwithanyinformationrequestedbytheCommission;


(b) whodiscloses thedetailsofhisorhercomplaint toanyotherpersonorentityotherthantheCommission;

(c) thesubstanceofthecomplaintwasmaliciousorwaspoliticallymotivatedagainstthepersonthesubjectofthecomplaintorwasmadeforthepurposeof discrediting or defaming, or causing reputational damage to, the person thesubjectofthecomplaint;or

(d) whobreachesanyprovisionofthisAct,

forfeits the protection given to that person under this Part.

PART 6—DECLARATION OF INCOME, ASSETS, OTHER INTERESTS AND LIABILITIESApplication of this Part

25.—(1) ThisPartappliestoallpersonsholdingthepositionsprescribedinSchedule6,includinganypersonactinginanysuchposition.

(2) TheMinistermay,byregulations,amendSchedule6andprescribeotherpublicofficialsorcivilservantsormembersoremployeesofstatutoryauthoritiesandotherStateentities to which this Part applies.

Statement of income, assets, other interests and liabilities26.—(1) A person to whom this Part applies must provide the Commission, in the

prescribed form and in accordancewith the guidelines or a directive issued by theCommission,withastatementsettingout, to thebestof theperson’sknowledge, themattersspecifiedinsubsection(2)inrespectofthatpersonandhisorherspouseandanychild—

(a) within 3 months after the coming into operation of this Act; or

(b) within3monthsafterbeingappointedtoapositionprescribedinSchedule6,

whicheveris thelater,andthereafter,whileheorsheremainstheholderofanofficeprescribed inSchedule6,onorbefore31Januaryofeachyear,astatementasat31Decemberofthepreviousyear.

(2) Themattersreferredtoinsubsection(1)are—

(a) totalassetswhetherinFijiorabroad(includingmoneyandotherpropertybutexcludinganyFNPForsuperannuationfundwhetherinFijiorabroad)ownedbyorinpossessionofeachofthem;

(b) thetotalincomewhetherinFijiorabroad,andthesourceofsuchincome,receivedbyeachofthemduringtheperiodtowhichthestatementrelates;

(c) any directorships or other office in a corporation or other organisationwhetherinFijiorabroadheldbyeachofthem;


(d) anybusinesstransactionoveranamountprescribedbyregulationswhetherinFijiorabroadenteredintobyeachofthemduringtheperiodtowhichthestatementrelateswhetherinFijiorabroad;

(e) anyassetsacquiredbyeachofthemwhetherinFijiorabroadduringtheperiod to which the statement relates; and

(f) theliabilitiesincurred,ordischarged,byeachofthemwhetherinFijiorabroadduringtheperiodtowhichthestatementrelates,andtheamountofeachsuchliability(includinganyoutstandingcreditcardbalanceasatthedate of the statement).

(3) RegulationsmadeunderthisActmayspecifyitemswhichareminoritemsforwhichitwillbesufficientcompliancewiththissectionifthestatementshowsthegeneralnature of such items.

(4) TheCommissionmaybywrittennoticerequireapersontowhomthisPartappliestoexplainorgivedetailsorfurtherdetailsofanymatterrelatingtothestatementincluding—

(a) itemsmentionedinsubsection(2);

(b) omissions or apparent omissions; or

(c) discrepanciesinthestatementorbetweenitandotherstatementsorotherinformationavailabletotheCommission.

(5) Subjecttosection27,statementsandanyotherinformationgiventotheCommissionunderthissectionmustnotberevealedtoanypersontowhomthisPartappliesexcept—

(a) by the Commission, or any other member of the Commission’s staffauthorisedbytheCommission,inthecourseoftheCommission’sdutieswithrespecttoanyproceedingsorpreparatorytoproceedingsunderthisAct; or

(b) under an order of a court.


Disclosure of statement27.—(1) Anypersonorentitymay,uponmakingawrittenrequesttotheCommission

anduponpaymentofsuchfeesasmaybeprescribedbytheCommission,obtainacopyofastatementandanyother informationgiven to theCommissionbyanyperson towhom this Part applies.

(2) Upon receipt of awritten requestunder subsection (1), theCommissionmustwithin14daysofthereceiptoftherequest,providetothepersonorentitymakingtherequestacopyofastatementandanyotherinformationgiventotheCommissionwithrespecttothepersontowhomthisPartapplieswhosestatementisbeingsoughtbythepersonorentitymakingtherequest.


(3) AnypersonorentitywhoobtainsacopyofastatementgiventotheCommissionbyanypersontowhomthisPartappliesmustnotpublishorbroadcastbyanymediumwhatsoeverormakeavailabletothemediainanywaywhatsoeverthecontentsofthestatementobtainedunderthissection.


Failure to provide statement28. AnypersontowhomthisPartapplieswho—

(a) failswithoutreasonableexcuse(theproofofwhichisuponhimorher)togive to the Commission a statement in accordance with section 26 or to giveanyexplanationordetailsrequiredundersection26;or

(b) knowingly, recklessly or negligently gives a statement or explanationrequiredundersection26,oranyotherdetail,thatisfalse,misleadingorincomplete in a material particular,

commitsanoffenceandisliableuponconvictiontoafinenotexceeding$10,000ortoatermofimprisonmentnotexceeding5years,ortoboth.

PART 7—MISCELLANEOUSRegulations

29. TheMinistermay, in consultationwith theCommission,make regulationsprescribingmatters thatare requiredorpermittedby thisAct tobeprescribedorarenecessaryorconvenienttobeprescribedforcarryingoutorgivingeffecttothisActandgenerallyforachievingthepurposesofthisAct.


SCHEDULE 1

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PRESIDENT, PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTERS

1. Observance of this Code

1.1 ApersontowhomthisCodeapplieshasadutytoconducthimselforherselfin accordance with this Code and therefore to keep himself or herselfinformedofitsprovisionsandanyamendments.

2. ConflictsofInterest

2.1 Soastoprotectandupholdthepublicinterest,apersontowhomthisCodeappliesmusttakereasonablestepstoavoid,resolveordiscloseanyconflictofinterest,financialornon-financial,thatarisesorislikelytoarise,betweenhisorherpersonalinterestsandhisorherofficialduties.

2.2 A person to whom this Code applies should not allow his or her private interesttoconflictwithhisorherpublicposition.Itishisorherresponsibilitytoavoidsuchconflictsofinterest,whetherreal,potentialorapparent.

2.3 A person to whom this Code appliesmust declare any such conflict ofinterest in writing to the appointing authority as soon as possible afterbecomingawareoftheconflict.

2.4 A person to whom this Code applies is individually responsible forpreventingconflictsofinterest.

2.5 AconflictofinterestarisesfromasituationinwhichthepersontowhomthisCodeapplieshasaprivate interestwhich is suchas to influence,orappeartoinfluence,theimpartialandobjectiveperformanceofhisorherofficialduties.

2.6 SincethepersontowhomthisCodeappliesisusuallytheonlypersonwhoknowswhetherheorsheisinthatsituation,thepersontowhomthisCodeapplieshasapersonalresponsibilityto—

(a) bealerttoanyactualorpotentialconflictofinterest;and

(b) takestepstoavoidsuchconflict.

3. DivestmentofPersonalInterests

3.1 A person to whom this Code applies, upon assuming office, must taketransparentstepstodealwiththefinancialandotherinterestsofhimselforherself, or his or her spouse or child, which could create the impression of amaterialconflictwithhisorherpublicduties.

4. ImproperAdvantageandMisuseofOfficialPosition

4.1 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesshouldnevertakeundueadvantageofhis or her position for his or her private interest.


4.2 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesmustundertake,uponassumingoffice,nottousehisorherpositionimproperlytogainadirectorindirectpersonaladvantageforhimselforherself,oranyotherpersonorentity,notenjoyedbythegeneralpublic.

4.3 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesshouldnotofferorgiveanyadvantageinanywayconnectedwithhisorherposition,unlesslawfullyauthorisedtodo so.

5. Confidentiality

5.1 Havingdueregardfortherightofaccesstoofficialinformation,apersontowhomthisCodeapplieshasadutytotreatappropriately,withallnecessaryconfidentiality,allinformationanddocumentsacquiredbyhimorherinthecourse of, or as a result of, his or her appointment and during the course of hisorherofficialduties.

5.2 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesmustundertake,uponassumingoffice,nottouseanyinformationobtainedinthecourseofhisorherofficialdutiesso as to gain a direct or indirect personal advantage for himself or herself, oranyotherpersonorentity,notenjoyedbythegeneralpublic,whetherduring the course of his or her appointment or upon resignation, retirement ordismissalfromoffice.

6. ImproperUseofPublicResources

6.1 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesmustnotusepublicresources,orallowsuchresourcestobeusedbyothers,forpersonaladvantageorbenefit.

6.2 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesmustuseandmanagepublicresourcesin accordance with any rules and guidelines regarding the use of thoseresources.

6.3 Aperson towhomthisCodeappliesmustbescrupulous inensuring thelegitimacyandaccuracyofanyclaimforthepaymentofanyremunerationorallowanceheorshemakesonthepublicpurse.

6.4 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesmustregardtheskillsandabilitiesofcivilservantsasapublicresourcetobeutilisedappropriately.

7. GiftsandBenefits

7.1 A person to whom this Code applies must not solicit, encourage or accept gifts,benefitsorfavourseitherforhimselforherselforforanotherpersoninconnectionwithperformingornotperforminghisorherofficialduties,contrary toanygift andbenefitpolicy issuedby theperson’sappointingauthority.


8. SusceptibilitytoInfluencebyOthers

8.1 A person to whom this Code applies should not allow himself or herself tobeput,orappeartobeput,inapositionofobligationtoreturnafavourtoanypersonorbody.Norshouldhisorherconductinhisorherofficialcapacity or in his or her private lifemakehimor her susceptible to theimproperinfluenceofothers.

9. Lobbyists

9.1 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesmusthandleanydealingswithlobbyistssoastoavoidgivingrisetoaconflictofinterestbetweenhisorherpublicdutyandpersonalinterests.

10. DirectorshipsandOtherFormsofEmployment

10.1 A person to whom this Code applies must not engage in any outsideemploymentthatinvolvesasubstantialcommitmentoftimeandeffortsuchastointerferewithhisorherofficialduties.

10.2 Exceptwiththeexpressapprovaloftheappointingauthority,apersontowhom thisCodeapplieswill resignordeclinedirectorshipsofpublicorprivatecompaniesandbusinessesontakingupoffice.

(a) Aperson towhom thisCode appliesmay hold a directorship in aprivatecompanyoperatingafamilyfarm,businessorinvestmentwiththeexpressapprovaloftheappointingauthority.

(b) Approval to retainadirectorshipof aprivatecompanyorbusinesswill be granted only if the appointing authority is satisfied that noconflictofinterestislikelytoarise.

10.3 A person to whom this Code applies will resign from all positions held in business(orprofessional)associationsortradeunionsontakingupoffice.Individualmembershipofsuchbusinessorprofessionalassociationandofatradeuniondoesnotconstitutea‘position’.

10.4 A person to whom this Code applies shall not act as a consultant or adviser to any company, business or other interest, whether paid or unpaid, orprovideassistancetoanysuchbody,exceptasmaybeappropriateinhisorherofficialcapacity.

11. Shareholdings

11.1 A person to whom this Code applies, must declare all shares or interests inanybusiness,company,partnership,trustorscheme,totheappointingauthorityandmustrelinquishanyshareholdingorinterestifdirectedtodosobytheappointingauthority.


12. Post-officeEmployment

12.1 A person to whom this Code applies must undertake that upon leavingofficeandforaperiodof12monthsthereafter,heorshewillnottakeupanyemploymentwith,acceptadirectorshipof,oractasaconsultanttoanycompany,businessororganisationwithwhichheor shehashadofficialdealingsinhisorherlast12monthsinoffice.

12.2 A person to whom this Code applies must undertake that upon leavingofficeheorshewillnotuseofficialinformationwhichisnotinthepublicdomain,orinformationobtainedinconfidenceinthecourseofhisorherofficialduties,fortheprivateadvantageorbenefitofhimselforherselforanother person or persons.

13. DutytoActLawfully

13.1 Indecisionmaking,apersontowhomthisCodeappliesshouldactlawfullyand exercise his or her discretionary powers, taking into account onlyrelevant matters.

14. RespectforPersons

14.1 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesistotreateveryonewithrespect,courtesyand in a fair and equitablemannerwithout harassment, victimisation ordiscrimination in accordance with section 26(3) of the Constitution.

15. RespectforRights

15.1 In the performance of his or her duties, a person to whom this Code applies should not act arbitrarily to the detriment of any person, group or bodyand should have due regard for the rights, duties and proper interests of all others.

16. PublicOfficials

16.1 A person to whom this Code applies must not by his or her decisions,directionsorconductinofficeencourageorinducepublicofficialstobreakthelaw,ortofail tocomplywithacodeofethicalconductapplicabletosuchpublicofficials.


SCHEDULE 2

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT, SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER



2. ConflictsofInterest



2.3 A person to whom this Code appliesmust declare any such conflict ofinterest in writing to the appointing authority as soon as possible afterbecomingawareoftheconflict.



2.6 SincethepersontowhomthisCodeappliesisusuallytheonlypersonwhoknowswhetherheorsheisinthatsituation,thepersontowhomthisCodeapplieshasapersonalresponsibilityto––







3.3 ApersontowhomthisCodeapplies,duringandafterleavingpublicoffice,mustnotusehisorherinfluenceimproperlyinordertoobtainappointment,promotion, advancement, transfer or any other advantage or benefit onbehalfofhimselforherselforanotherpersonorpersons.

4. Confidentiality

4.1 Havingdueregardfortherightofaccesstoofficialinformation,apersontowhomthisCodeapplieshasadutytotreatappropriately,withallnecessaryconfidentiality,allinformationanddocumentsacquiredbyhimorherinthecourse of, or as a result of, his or her appointment and during the course of hisorherofficialduties.



5.1 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesmustnotusepublicresources,orallowsuchresourcestobeusedbyothers,forpersonaladvantageorbenefit.



6. GiftsandBenefits

6.1 A person to whom this Code applies must not solicit, encourage or accept gifts,benefitsorfavourseitherforhimselforherselforforanotherpersoninconnectionwithperformingornotperforminghisorherofficialduties,contrary toanygift andbenefitpolicy issuedby theperson’sappointingauthority.


7.1 A person to whom this Code applies should not allow himself or herself tobeput,orappeartobeput,inapositionofobligationtoreturnafavourtoanypersonorbody.Norshouldhisorherconductinhisorherofficialcapacity or in his or her private lifemakehimor her susceptible to theimproperinfluenceofothers.


8. Lobbyists

8.1 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesmusthandleanydealingswithlobbyistssoastoavoidgivingrisetoaconflictofinterestbetweenhisorherpublicdutyandpersonalinterests.

9. OutsideEmployment

9.1 A person to whom this Code applies must not engage in any outsideemploymentthatinvolvesasubstantialcommitmentoftimeandeffortsuchastointerferewithhisorherdutiesastheSpeaker,DeputySpeakeroramemberofParliament.


10.1 Indecisionmaking,apersontowhomthisCodeappliesshouldactlawfullyand exercise his or her discretionary powers, taking into account onlyrelevant matters.


11.1 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesistotreateveryonewithrespect,courtesyand in a fair and equitablemannerwithout harassment, victimisation ordiscrimination in accordance with section 26(3) of the Constitution.


12.1 In the performance of his or her duties, a person to whom this Code applies should not act arbitrarily to the detriment of any person, group or bodyand should have due regard for the rights, duties and proper interests of all others.


SCHEDULE 3

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR JUDICIAL OFFICERS


1.1 AjudicialofficerhasadutytoconducthimselforherselfinaccordancewiththisCodeandthereforetokeephimselforherselfinformedofitsprovisionsandanyamendments.

2. Independence

2.1 Judicial independence is a prerequisite to the rule of law and a fundamental guarantee of a fair trial. A judicial officer shall therefore uphold andexemplify judicial independence in both its individual and institutionalaspects.

2.2 Ajudicialofficershallexercisethejudicialfunctionindependentlyonthebasisofthejudicialofficer’sassessmentofthefactsandinaccordancewithaconscientiousunderstandingofthelaw,freeofanyextraneousinfluences,inducements,pressures,threatsorinterference,directorindirect,fromanyquarterorforanyreason.

2.3 Ajudicialofficershallbeindependentinrelationtosocietyingeneralandinrelationtotheparticularpartiestoadisputewhichthejudicialofficerhastoadjudicate.

2.4 Ajudicialofficershallnotonlybefreefrominappropriateconnectionswith,andinfluenceby,theexecutiveandlegislativebranchesofGovernment,butmustalsoappeartoareasonableobservertobefreetherefrom.

2.5 In performing judicial duties, a judicial officer shall be independent ofjudicial colleagues in respect of decisions which the judicial officer isobligedtomakeindependently.

2.6 Ajudicialofficershallencourageandupholdsafeguardsforthedischargeof judicial duties in order tomaintain and enhance the institutional andoperationalindependenceoftheJudiciary.

2.7 A judicial officer shall exhibit and promote high standards of judicialconduct inorder to reinforcepublicconfidence in theJudiciarywhich isfundamentaltothemaintenanceofjudicialindependence.

3. Impartiality

3.1 Impartiality is essential to the proper discharge of the judicial office. Itappliesnotonlytothedecisionitselfbutalsototheprocessbywhichthedecision is made.


3.2 A judicialofficer shallperformhisorher judicialdutieswithout favour,biasorprejudice.

3.3 A judicial officer shall ensure that his or her conduct, both in and outof court,maintains and enhances the confidence of the public, the legalprofessionandlitigantsintheimpartialityofthejudicialofficerandoftheJudiciary.

3.4 Ajudicialofficershall,sofarasisreasonable,soconducthimselforherselfastominimisetheoccasionsonwhichitwillbenecessaryforthejudicialofficertobedisqualifiedfromhearingordecidingcases.

3.5 Ajudicialofficershallnotknowingly,whileaproceedingisbefore,orcouldcomebefore,thejudicialofficer,makeanycommentthatmightreasonablybeexpectedtoaffecttheoutcomeofsuchproceedingorimpairthemanifestfairnessoftheprocess.Norshallthejudicialofficermakeanycommentinpublicorotherwisethatmightaffectthefairtrialofanypersonorissue.

3.6 Ajudicialofficershalldisqualifyhimselforherselffromparticipatinginanyproceedingsinwhichthejudicialofficerisunabletodecidethematterimpartially or inwhich itmay appear to a reasonable observer that thejudicialofficerisunabletodecidethematterimpartially.Suchproceedingsinclude,butarenotlimitedto,instanceswhere—

(a) the judicial officer has actual bias or prejudice concerning a partyorpersonalknowledgeofdisputedevidentiaryfactsconcerningtheproceedings;

(b) the judicialofficerpreviouslyservedasa lawyerorwasamaterialwitnessinthematterincontroversy;or

(c) thejudicialofficer,oramemberofthejudicialofficer’sfamily,hasaneconomicinterestintheoutcomeofthematterincontroversy,providedthatdisqualificationof a judicialofficer shallnotbe required ifnoothertribunalcanbeconstitutedtodealwiththecaseor,becauseofurgent circumstances, failure to act could lead to a serious miscarriage ofjustice.

4. Integrity

4.1 Integrityisessentialtotheproperdischargeofthejudicialoffice.

4.2 Ajudicialofficershallensurethathisorherconductisabovereproachintheviewofareasonableobserver.

4.3 Thebehaviourandconductofajudicialofficermustreaffirmthepeople'sfaithintheintegrityoftheJudiciary.Justicemustnotmerelybedonebutmustalsobeseentobedone.


5. Propriety

5.1 Propriety,andtheappearanceofpropriety,areessentialtotheperformanceofalloftheactivitiesofajudicialofficer.

5.2 Ajudicialofficershallavoidimproprietyandtheappearanceofimproprietyinallofthejudicialofficer’sactivities.

5.3 As a subject of constant public scrutiny, a judicial officer must acceptpersonalrestrictionsthatmightbeviewedasburdensomebytheordinarycitizenandshoulddosofreelyandwillingly.Inparticular,ajudicialofficershallconducthimselforherselfinawaythatisconsistentwiththedignityofthejudicialoffice.

5.4 A judicial officer shall, in his or her personal relations with individualmembers of the legal profession who practise regularly in the judicialofficer’s court, avoid situationswhichmight reasonably give rise to thesuspicionorappearanceoffavouritismorpartiality.

5.5 A judicial officer shall not participate in the determination of a case inwhichanymemberofthejudicialofficer’sfamilyrepresentsalitigantorisassociatedinanymannerwiththecase.

5.6 Ajudicialofficershallnotallowtheuseofthejudicialofficer’sresidencebyamemberofthelegalprofessiontoreceiveclientsorothermembersofthe legal profession.

5.7 Ajudicialofficer,likeanyothercitizen,isentitledtofreedomofexpression,belief, associationandassembly,but inexercisingsuch rights, a judicialofficershallalwaysconducthimselforherselfinsuchamannerastopreservethedignityofthejudicialofficeandtheimpartialityandindependenceoftheJudiciary.

5.8 Ajudicialofficershallinformhimselforherselfaboutthejudicialofficer’spersonalandfiduciaryfinancialinterestsandshallmakereasonableeffortsto be informed about the financial interests of members of the judicialofficer’sfamily.

5.9 Ajudicialofficershallnotallowthejudicialofficer’sfamily,socialorotherrelationshipstoimproperlyinfluencethejudicialofficer’sjudicialconductandjudgementasajudicialofficer.

5.10 Ajudicialofficershallnotuseorlendtheprestigeofthejudicialofficetoadvancetheprivateinterestsofthejudicialofficer,amemberofthejudicialofficer’s family or of anyone else, nor shall a judicial officer convey orpermitotherstoconveytheimpressionthatanyoneisinaspecialpositionimproperlytoinfluencethejudicialofficerintheperformanceofjudicialduties.


5.11 Confidential information acquired by a judicial officer in the judicialofficer’s judicial capacity shall not be used or disclosed by the judicialofficer for anyother purpose not related to the judicial officer’s judicialduties.

5.12 Subjecttotheproperperformanceofjudicialduties,ajudicialofficermay—

(a) write, lecture, teach and participate in activities concerning the law, thelegalsystem,theadministrationofjusticeorrelatedmatters;

(b) appear at a public hearing before an official body concernedwithmatters relating to the law, the legal system, the administration ofjusticeorrelatedmatters;

(c) serve as a member of an official body, or other Governmentcommission,committeeoradvisorybody,ifsuchmembershipisnotinconsistentwiththeperceivedimpartialityandpoliticalneutralityofajudicialofficer;or

(d) engage in other activities if such activities do not detract from the dignity of the judicial office or otherwise interfere with theperformanceofjudicialduties.

5.13 Ajudicialofficershallnotpractiselawwhilsttheholderofjudicialoffice.

5.14 A judicial officer may form or join associations of judicial officers orparticipate in other organisations representing the interests of judicialofficers.

5.15 Ajudicialofficerandmembersofthejudicialofficer’sfamily,shallneitheraskfor,noraccept,anygift,bequest,loanorfavourinrelationtoanythingdoneortobedoneoromittedtobedonebythejudicialofficerinconnectionwiththeperformanceofjudicialduties.

5.16 Ajudicialofficershallnotknowinglypermitcourtstafforotherssubjecttothejudicialofficer’sinfluence,directionorauthority,toaskfor,oraccept,anygift,bequest,loanorfavourinrelationtoanythingdoneortobedoneoromittedtobedoneinconnectionwithhisorherdutiesorfunctions.

5.17 Subjecttolawandtoanylegalrequirementsofpublicdisclosure,ajudicialofficer may receive a token gift, award or benefit as appropriate to theoccasiononwhichitismadeinaccordancewiththegiftpolicyissuedbythe judicial officer’s appointing authority, provided that suchgift, awardorbenefitmightnotreasonablybeperceivedasintendedtoinfluencethejudicialofficerintheperformanceofjudicialdutiesorotherwisegiverisetoanappearanceofpartiality.


6. Equality

6.1 Ensuringequalityoftreatmenttoallbeforethecourtsisessentialtothedueperformanceofthejudicialoffice.

6.2 A judicial officer shall be awareof, andunderstand, diversity in societyanddifferencesarisingfromvarioussources,includingbutnotlimitedtorace, culture, ethnic or social origin, colour, place of origin, sex, gender, sexualorientation,genderidentityandexpression,birth,primarylanguage,economic, social or health status, disability, age, religion, conscience,maritalstatus,pregnancyandotherlikecauses(“irrelevantgrounds”).

6.3 Ajudicialofficershallnot,intheperformanceofjudicialduties,bywordsor conduct, manifest bias or prejudice towards any person or group onirrelevant grounds.

6.4 Ajudicialofficershallcarryoutjudicialdutieswithappropriateconsiderationforallpersons,suchastheparties,witnesses,lawyers,courtstaffandjudicialcolleagues,withoutdifferentiationonanyirrelevantground,immaterialtothe proper performance of such duties.


SCHEDULE 4

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR MEMBERS OF COMMISSIONS AND STATUTORY AUTHORITIES



2. ConflictofInterest



2.3 A person to whom this Code appliesmust declare any such conflict ofinterest inwriting to his or her appointing authority as soon as possibleafterbecomingawareoftheconflict.



2.6 SincethepersontowhomthisCodeappliesisusuallytheonlypersonwhoknowswhetherheorsheisinthatsituation,thepersontowhomthisCodeapplieshasapersonalresponsibilityto—







3.3 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesshouldnotofferorgiveanyadvantageinanywayconnectedwithhisorherposition,unlesslawfullyauthorisedtodo so.

3.4 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesshouldnotseektoinfluenceforprivatepurposesanyperson,includingpublicofficials,byusinghisorherofficialpositionorbyofferinghimorherpersonaladvantages.

4. Confidentiality 4.1 Havingdueregardfortherightofaccesstoofficialinformation,apersonto

whomthisCodeapplieshasadutytotreatappropriately,withallnecessaryconfidentiality,allinformationanddocumentsacquiredbyhimorherinthecourse of, or as a result of, his or her appointment and during the course of hisorherofficialduties.


5. InformationHeldbyPublicAuthorities 5.1 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesshouldonlydiscloseinformationin

accordancewiththerulesandrequirementsapplyingtotheentitybywhichhe or she is appointed.

5.2 A person to whom this Code applies should take appropriate steps toprotectthesecurityandconfidentialityofinformationforwhichheorsheisresponsibleorofwhichheorshebecomesaware.

5.3 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesshouldnotseekaccesstoinformationwhich it is inappropriate for him or her to have. A person to whom this Code appliesshouldnotmakeimproperuseofinformationwhichheorshemayacquire in the course of, or arising from, his or her appointment.

5.4 EquallythepersontowhomthisCodeapplieshasadutynottowithholdofficial information that should properly be released and a duty not toprovideinformationwhichheorsheknowsorhasareasonablegroundtobelieveisfalseormisleading.

6. ImproperUseofPublicResources 6.1 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesmustnotusepublicresources,orallow

suchresourcestobeusedbyothers,forpersonaladvantageorbenefit.



6.3 Intheexerciseofhisorherdiscretionarypowers,apersontowhomthisCode applies should ensure that on the one hand the staff, and on the other hand thepublicproperty, facilities, services andfinancial resourceswithwhichheorsheisentrustedaremanagedandusedeffectively,efficientlyand economically.They should not be used for private purposes exceptwhenpermissionislawfullygiven.


7. GiftsandBenefits 7.1 A person to whom this Code applies must not solicit, encourage or accept

gifts,benefitsorfavourseitherforhimselforherselforforanotherpersoninconnectionwithperformingornotperforminghisorherofficialduties,contrary toanygift andbenefitpolicy issuedby theperson’sappointingauthority.

8. SusceptibilitytoInfluencebyOthers 8.1 A person to whom this Code applies should not allow himself or herself

tobeput,orappeartobeput,inapositionofobligationtoreturnafavourtoanypersonorbody.Norshouldhisorherconductinhisorherofficialcapacity or in his or her private lifemakehimor her susceptible to theimproperinfluenceofothers.

9. DutytoActLawfully 9.1 A person towhom this Code applies should carry out his or her duties

in accordance with the Constitution and all laws, and with those lawful instructions and ethical standards which relate to his or her functions.

9.2 A person to whom this Code applies should not and should not attempt to frustrate the lawful policies, decisions or actions of the State.

9.3 Indecisionmaking,apersontowhomthisCodeappliesshouldactlawfullyandexercisehisorherdiscretionarypowersimpartially,takingintoaccountonlyrelevantmatters.

10. RespectforPersons 10.1 ApersontowhomthisCodeappliesistotreateveryonewithrespect,courtesy

and in a fair and equitablemannerwithout harassment, victimisation ordiscrimination in accordance with section 26(3) of the Constitution.

11. RespectforRights 11.1 In the performance of his or her duties, a person to whom this Code applies

should not act arbitrarily to the detriment of any person, group or bodyand should have due regard for the rights, duties and proper interests of all others.


SCHEDULE 5

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PUBLIC OFFICIALS


1.1 ApublicofficialhasadutytoconducthimselforherselfinaccordancewiththisCodeandthereforetokeephimselforherselfinformedofitsprovisionsandanyamendments.

2. ConflictofInterest

2.1 Soastoprotectandupholdthepublicinterest,apublicofficialmusttakereasonable steps to avoid, resolve or disclose any conflict of interest,financialornon-financial,thatarisesorislikelytoarise,betweenhisorherpersonalinterestsandhisorherofficialduties.

2.2 A public official should not allow his or her private interest to conflictwithhisorherpublicposition.Itishisorherresponsibilitytoavoidsuchconflictsofinterest,whetherreal,potentialorapparent.

2.3 Apublicofficialmustdeclareanysuchconflictofinterestinwritingtohisorherappointingauthorityassoonaspossibleafterbecomingawareoftheconflict.

2.4 A public official is individually responsible for preventing conflicts ofinterest.

2.5 Aconflictofinterestarisesfromasituationinwhichthepublicofficialhasaprivateinterestwhichissuchastoinfluence,orappeartoinfluence,theimpartialandobjectiveperformanceofhisorherofficialduties.

2.6 Sincethepublicofficialisusuallytheonlypersonwhoknowswhetherheorsheisinthatsituation,thepublicofficialhasapersonalresponsibilityto—

(a) bealerttoanyactualorpotentialconflictofinterest;

(b) takestepstoavoidsuchconflict;

(c) disclosetohisorherappointingauthorityanysuchconflictassoonasheorshebecomesawareofit;and

(d) complywithanyfinaldecisiontowithdrawfromthesituationortodivesthimselforherselfoftheadvantagecausingtheconflict.

2.7 Anyconflictofinterestdeclaredbyacandidatetothecivilserviceortoanewpostinthecivilserviceshouldberesolvedbeforeappointment.


3. Declaration of interests

3.1 A public official who occupies a position in which his or her personalor private interests are likely to be affected by his or her official dutiesshould,aslawfullyrequired,declareuponappointment,atregularintervalsthereafterandwheneveranychangesoccurtothenatureandextentofthoseinterests.


4.1 Apublicofficialshouldnevertakeundueadvantageofhisorherpositionfor his or her private interest.

4.2 Apublicofficialmustundertake,uponassumingoffice,not tousehisorherpositionimproperlytogainadirectorindirectpersonaladvantageforhimselforherself,oranyotherpersonorentity,notenjoyedbythegeneralpublic.

4.3 Apublicofficialshouldnotofferorgiveanyadvantageinanywayconnectedwithhisorherpositionasapublicofficial,unlesslawfullyauthorisedtodoso.

4.4 A public official should not seek to influence for private purposes anyperson,includingotherpublicofficials,byusinghisorherofficialpositionorbyofferinghimorherpersonaladvantages.

5. Confidentiality

5.1 Havingdueregardfortherightofaccesstoofficialinformation,apublicofficialhasadutytotreatappropriately,withallnecessaryconfidentiality,allinformationanddocumentsacquiredbyhimorherinthecourseof,orasaresultof,hisorheremploymentandduringthecourseofhisorherofficialduties.

5.2 A public official must undertake, upon assuming office, not to use anyinformation obtained in the course of his or her official duties so as togainadirectorindirectpersonaladvantageforhimselforherself,oranyotherpersonorentity,notenjoyedbythegeneralpublic,whetherduringthe course of his or her appointment or upon resignation, retirement or dismissalfromoffice.

6. InformationHeldbyPublicAuthorities

6.1 A public official should only disclose information in accordance withthe rules and requirements applying to the entity bywhich he or she isemployed.

6.2 Apublicofficialshouldtakeappropriatestepstoprotectthesecurityandconfidentialityofinformationforwhichheorsheisresponsibleorofwhichheorshebecomesaware.


6.3 A public official should not seek access to information which it isinappropriate for him or her to have.A public official should notmakeimproperuseofinformationwhichheorshemayacquireinthecourseof,orarisingfrom,hisorheremployment.

6.4 Equallythepublicofficialhasadutynottowithholdofficialinformationthat should properly be released and a duty not to provide informationwhichheorsheknowsorhasa reasonableground tobelieve is falseormisleading.


7.1 Apublicofficialmustnotusepublicresources,orallowsuchresourcestobeusedbyothers,forpersonaladvantageorbenefit.

7.2 Apublicofficialmustuseandmanagepublicresourcesinaccordancewithanyrulesandguidelinesregardingtheuseofthoseresources.

7.3 Intheexerciseofhisorherdiscretionarypowers,apublicofficialshouldensure that on the one hand the staff, and on the other hand the publicproperty,facilities,servicesandfinancialresourceswithwhichheorsheisentrustedaremanagedandusedeffectively,efficientlyandeconomically.Theyshouldnotbeusedforprivatepurposesexceptwhenpermission islawfullygiven.

7.4 Apublicofficialmustbescrupulousinensuringthelegitimacyandaccuracyofanyclaimforthepaymentofanyremunerationorallowanceheorshemakesonthepublicpurse.

8. GiftsandBenefits

8.1 A public officialmust not solicit, encourage or accept gifts, benefits orfavours either for himself or herself or for another person in connection withperformingornotperforminghisorherofficialduties,contrarytoanygiftandbenefitpolicyissuedbythepublicofficial’sappointingauthority.


9.1 Apublicofficialshouldnotallowhimselforherselftobeput,orappeartobeput,inapositionofobligationtoreturnafavourtoanypersonorbody.Norshouldhisorherconductinhisorherofficialcapacityorinhisorherprivatelifemakehimorhersusceptibletotheimproperinfluenceofothers.

10. PoliticalNeutrality

10.1 ApublicofficialshouldcarryouthisorherdutiesinaccordancewiththeConstitution and all laws, and with those lawful instructions and ethical standards which relate to his or her functions.

10.2 Apublicofficialshouldactinapoliticallyneutralmannerandshouldnotattempt to frustrate the lawful policies, decisions or actions of the State.


11. PoliticalorPublicActivity

11.1 Subjecttorespectforfundamentalandconstitutionalrights,apublicofficialshouldtakecarethatnoneofhisorherpoliticalactivitiesorinvolvementinpoliticalorpublicdebatesimpairstheconfidenceofthepublicandhisorheremployerinhisorherabilitytoperformhisorherdutiesimpartiallyandloyally.

11.2 Intheexerciseofhisorherduties,apublicofficialshouldnotallowhimselforherselftobeusedforpartisanpoliticalpurposes.

11.3 Apublicofficialshouldcomplywithanyrestrictionsonpoliticalactivitylawfullyimposedoncertaincategoriesofpublicofficialsbyreasonofhisor her position or the nature of his or her duties.

12. IncompatibleOutsideInterests

12.1 Apublicofficialshouldnotengageinanyactivityortransactionoracquireanypositionorfunction,whetherpaidorunpaid,thatisincompatiblewithor detracts from theproper performanceof his or her duties as a publicofficial.Whereitisnotclearwhetheranactivityiscompatible,heorsheshouldseekadvicefromhisorhersuperior.

12.2 Apublicofficialisrequiredtonotifyandseektheapprovalofhisorherappointingauthoritytocarryoutcertainactivities,whetherpaidorunpaid,or to accept certain positions or functions outside his or her civil service employment.

12.3 A public official should declare membership of, or association with,organisations that could detract from his or her position or proper performanceofhisorherdutiesasapublicofficial.

13. LeavingthePublicOffice

13.1 Apublicofficialshouldnottakeimproperadvantageofhisorherpublicofficetoobtaintheopportunityofemploymentoutsidethecivilservice.

13.2 A public official should not allow the prospect of other employment tocreateforhimorheranactual,potentialorapparentconflictofinterest.Heorsheshouldimmediatelydiscloseanyconcreteofferofemploymentthatcouldcreateaconflictofinterest.Heorsheshouldalsodisclosehisorheracceptanceofanyofferofemployment.

13.3 Inaccordancewithsuchguidelinessetbytheappointingauthority,foranappropriateperiodoftime,theformerpublicofficialshouldnotactforanypersonorbodyinrespectofanymatteronwhichheorsheactedfor,oradvised,thecivilserviceandwhichwouldresultinaparticularbenefittothatpersonorbody.


13.4 Theformerpublicofficialshouldnotuseordiscloseconfidentialinformationacquiredbyhimorherasapublicofficialandmustundertakethatuponleavingpublicofficeheorshewillnotuseofficialinformationwhichisnotinthepublicdomain,orinformationobtainedinconfidenceinthecourseofhisorherofficialduties,fortheprivateadvantageorbenefitofhimselforherselforanotherpersonorpersonsunlessrequiredbylaw.

13.5 Apublicofficialshouldcomplywithanylawfulrulesthatapplytohimorher regarding the acceptance of appointments on leaving the civil service.

14. DealingwithFormerPublicOfficials

14.1 Apublicofficialshouldnotgivepreferentialtreatmentorprivilegedaccesstothecivilservicetoformerpublicofficials.


15.1 Indecisionmakingapublicofficial shouldact lawfullyandexercisehisorherdiscretionarypowersimpartially,takingintoaccountonlyrelevantmatters.


16.1 Apublicofficialmusttakeallreasonablestepstoobserverelevantstandardsofproceduralfairnessindecisionsmadebyhimorher.Suchdecisionsaretobeunaffectedbybiasorirrelevantconsiderations.

16.2 Apublicofficial is to treat everyonewith respect, courtesyand ina fairandequitablemannerwithoutharassment,victimisationordiscriminationin accordance with section 26(3) of the Constitution.


17.1 In the performance of his or her duties, a public official should not actarbitrarilytothedetrimentofanyperson,grouporbodyandshouldhavedue regard for the rights, duties and proper interests of all others.

18. Integrity

18.1 Apublicofficialhasadutyalwaystoconducthimselforherselfinawaythat the public’s confidence and trust in the integrity, impartiality andeffectiveness of the civil service are preserved and enhanced.

19. Reporting

19.1 Apublicofficialwhobelievesheorsheisbeingrequiredtoactinawaywhich is unlawful, improper or unethical, which involves maladministration, or which is otherwise inconsistent with this Code, should report the matter as a complaint to the Commission.

19.2 ApublicofficialshouldmakeacomplainttotheCommissionifheorshebecomesawareofbreachesofthisCodebyotherpublicofficials.


SCHEDULE 6(Section 25)________

OFFICES AND OFFICIALS TO WHOM PART 6 APPLIES

1. President

2. Prime Minister

3. Attorney-General

4. Ministers (including Assistant Ministers and Acting Ministers)

5. Speaker

6. DeputySpeaker

7. MembersofParliament

8. Supervisor of Elections

9. Secretary-GeneraltoParliament

10. DeputySecretary-GeneraltoParliament

11. OfficialSecretary,OfficeofthePresident

12. SecretarytoCabinet

13. Commissioner of the Independent Legal Services Commission

14. Commissioner of FICAC

15. DeputyCommissionerofFICAC

16. Solicitor-General

17. DirectorofPublicProsecutions

18. Director of the Legal Aid Commission

19. Director of the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission

20. Permanent secretaries

21. AmbassadororprincipalrepresentativeofFijitoanothercountryorinternationalorganisation

22. CommissioneroftheFijiPoliceForce

23. DeputyorassistantCommissioneroftheFijiPoliceForce

24. CommissioneroftheFijiCorrectionsService

25. DeputyorassistantCommissioneroftheFijiCorrectionsService

26. CommanderoftheRepublicofFijiMilitaryForces


27. Auditor-General

28. GovernoroftheReserveBankofFiji

29. DeputyGovernoroftheReserveBankofFiji

30. Administrator-General

31. Registrar-General

32. OfficialReceiver

33. Registrar of Companies

34. Registrar of Titles

35. Chief Pharmacist

36. DeputyChiefPharmacist

37. Chief Accountant

38. Deputypermanentsecretaries

39. DirectorsinanyGovernmentministryordepartment

40. DeputyorassistantdirectorsinanyGovernmentministryordepartment

41. Divisional commissioners

42. Deputyorassistantdivisionalcommissioners

43. Provincial administrators

44. Deputyorassistantprovisionaladministrators

45. Districtofficers

46. Deputyorassistantdistrictofficers

47. Specialadministratorofanytownorcitycouncil

48. Chiefexecutiveofficerandthetownclerkofanytownorcitycouncil

49. ChiefexecutiveofficerBiosecurityAuthorityofFiji

50. ChiefexecutiveofficerCivilAviationAuthorityofFiji

51. ChiefexecutiveofficerFijiCommerceCommission

52. ChiefexecutiveofficerFijiElectricityAuthority

53. ChiefexecutiveofficerFijiMeatIndustryBoard

54. ChiefexecutiveofficerFijiRevenueandCustomsAuthority

55. ChiefexecutiveofficerFijiRoadsAuthority

56. ChiefexecutiveofficerHousingAuthority


57. ChiefexecutiveofficerInvestmentFiji

58. ChiefexecutiveofficeriTaukeiLandTrustBoard

59. ChiefexecutiveofficerLandTransportAuthority

60. ChiefexecutiveofficerMaritimeSafetyAuthorityofFiji

61. ChiefexecutiveofficerPublicRentalBoard

62. ChiefexecutiveofficerTourismFiji

63. ChiefexecutiveofficerWaterAuthorityofFiji

39

Office of the Attorney-GeneralSuvavou House

Suva

April 2016

CODEOFCONDUCTBILL2016________

EXPLANATORYNOTE

(This note is not part of the Bill and is only intended to indicate its general effect)

1.0 BACKGROUND

1.1 Section149oftheConstitutionoftheRepublicofFiji(‘FijianConstitution’)provides that a written law shall—

(a) establishacodeofconductwhichshallbeapplicabletothePresident,Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Prime Minister, Ministers, members ofParliament,holdersofofficesestablishedbyorcontinuedinexistenceunderthisConstitutionorunderanywrittenlaw,membersofcommissions,permanentsecretaries,ambassadorsorotherprincipal representativesoftheState,andpersonswhoholdstatutoryappointmentsorgoverningorexecutivepositionsinstatutoryauthorities,andtosuchotheroffices(includingpublicoffices)asmaybeprescribedbywrittenlaw;

(b) establishrules,processesandproceduresfortheimplementationofthecodeofconductbytheAccountabilityandTransparencyCommission;

(c) provide for the monitoring by theAccountability and TransparencyCommissionof compliancewith the codeof conduct by theofficersmentioned in paragraph (a);

(d) makeprovisionfortheinvestigationofallegedbreachesofthecodeofconductandenforcementofthecodeofconductbytheAccountabilityandTransparencyCommission,includingthroughcriminalanddisciplinaryproceedings,andprovidefortheremovalfromofficeofthoseofficerswhoarefoundtobeinbreachofthecodeofconduct;

(e) provide for theprotectionofwhistle-blowers, beingpersonswho, ingoodfaith,makedisclosuresthatanofficermentionedinparagraph(a) hascontravenedanywrittenlaworhasbreachedthecodeofconductorhas engaged in fraudulent or corrupt practices; and

40

(f) providefortheannualdeclarationbytheofficersmentionedinparagraph(a) oftheassetsandliabilitiesandfinancialinterestsoftheofficer,andofsuchotherdirectrelativesoftheofficerasmaybeprescribed,totheAccountabilityandTransparencyCommission,andforsuchdeclarationstobeaccessibletothepublic.

1.2 TheFijianGovernmentisthereforeconstitutionallyboundtoenactlegislationwhichgiveseffecttosection149oftheFijianConstitution.

1.3 For that reason, the Code of Conduct Bill 2016 (‘Bill’)isestablishedtogiveeffecttosection149oftheFijianConstitution.

2.0 FEATURESOFTHEBILL

2.1 Part1oftheBillprovidesforthepreliminaryprovisionssuchastheshorttitle,commencement and interpretation provisions.

2.2 Part2oftheBillprovidesforthefunctionsandpowersoftheAccountabilityandTransparencyCommission(‘Commission’)establishedundersection121oftheFijianConstitution.

2.3 Part3of theBillprescribes theCodesofConductwhicharesetout in theSchedules to the Bill in accordance with section 149(a)oftheFijianConstitutionapplicableto—

(a) the President, Prime Minister, and all Ministers;

(b) theSpeaker,DeputySpeakerandallmembersofParliament;

(c) judicialofficers;

(d) allmembersofacommissionestablishedby,orcontinuedinexistence,undertheConstitutionandallmembersofastatutoryauthorityoraboardofastatutoryauthority;and

(e) allpublicofficialsnotcoveredbyaCodeofConduct forofficials inparagraph (a) to (d) above.

2.4 Part 4 of the Bill provides provisions for the investigation of complaints made totheCommissionandforthereferralofcomplainstotheappointingauthorityandtheprosecutingauthority.

2.5 Part 5 of the Bill provides protection for complainants. It ensures that a person whomakesacomplaint to theCommission isgiven immunityand that theperson’sidentityisprotected.

2.6 Part6oftheBillprovidesforthemakingofmandatorystatementofincome,assets,otherinterestsandliabilitiesbypersonsprescribedinSchedule6oftheBill. Part 6 also imposes penalties for failure to declare income, assets, other interestsandliabilities.

41

2.7 Part 7 of the Bill empowers the Minister in consultation with the Commission tomakeregulationsnecessaryfortheimplementationoftheBill.

3.0 MINISTERIALASSIGNMENT

3.1 ThisActcomesundertheresponsibilityoftheAttorney-General.

A. SAYED-KHAIYUMAttorney-General

Price:$3.20 S.NAVUNILAWA,GovernmentPrinter,Suva,Fiji—2016 22/A/16—900Official Printer Since 1883

code of conduct bill 2016 (bill no. 22 of 2016)€¦ · for an act to establish a code of conduct...

Documents