There has been a significant development in the ongoing Barbara-gate issue. Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu is urging that prominent government officials, including Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga, Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption Commissioner Barbara Malimali, and Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku, be held to the same standards as the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde.
The suspension of Mr. Pryde last April, linked to allegations of a contentious meeting with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum at the Japanese Ambassador’s residence, has sparked intense discussions about transparency within Fiji’s leadership. Mr. Pryde was reportedly photographed with Mr. Sayed-Khaiyum, which prompted an investigation by his office concerning Mr. Sayed-Khaiyum.
As Mr. Seruiratu continues to advocate for justice and accountability, the focus now shifts to the highest echelons of the justice system. Recently, a photo of Mr. Turaga, Ms. Malimali, and Mr. Rabuku was shared on the Ministry of Justice’s Facebook page, showing them at a Grand Pacific Hotel event welcoming a Japanese delegation. However, as of last night, the photo was removed from the page.
In terms of background, Mr. Turaga is currently facing an active investigation by FICAC, and Mr. Rabuku had previously reviewed Ms. Malimali’s case with Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva. Mr. Rabuku’s office referred the matter to the Criminal Department of Investigation on September 24, 2024, citing that the investigation into Ms. Malimali was ‘incomplete’ and required further police inquiry.
Christopher Pryde, the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, was dismissed last April amid allegations of misconduct. His suspension was enacted by President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere following recommendations from the Judicial Services Commission, in accordance with the Constitution.
Mr. Seruiratu has criticized the recently publicized interaction among the trio, suggesting that if similar standards are to be upheld, the relevant authorities should consider whether suspensions or a tribunal are necessary for Ms. Malimali, Mr. Rabuku, and Mr. Turaga to uphold the credibility of the justice system. He expressed that public perception of impartiality is vital, particularly when high-ranking officials are entangled in ongoing investigations, noting that Mr. Rabuku’s public association with Ms. Malimali could compromise the integrity of the investigation.
Mr. Seruiratu emphasized that the appearance of bias or misconduct must be addressed to maintain public trust in institutions. He supports an in-depth review of the circumstances involving these officials and emphasizes the need for scrutiny similar to that seen in Mr. Pryde’s case.
Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry echoed these views, pointing out that both Mr. Rabuku and Ms. Malimali were observed engaging in serious conversation during the event. He questioned whether Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo and DPP Tikoisuva would take action in response to these interactions, noting that DPP Tikoisuva has constitutional authority to take disciplinary measures against any DPP officer.
Inquiries were made to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and the Chair of the Judicial Services Commission, Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo, but no responses were received by the time of publication. Meanwhile, a spokesperson from the Attorney-General’s Office explained the context of the high-level Japanese delegation visit, stating that it aims to strengthen relations in the law and justice sector, without addressing specific questions related to the officials’ conduct.