Attorney General Graham Leung has emphasized that due process was followed in the selection of Barbara Malimali as the new Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).
Leung expressed concerns that Francis Pulewai, the Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, may have authorized Malimali’s arrest and exercised arrest powers against her, despite her valid appointment.
He explained that Malimali was officially appointed by President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, based on the advice of the Judicial Services Commission, in accordance with legal protocols.
Leung urged Pulewai to honor this appointment, noting that the arrest of Malimali presents serious issues, particularly as reports indicate she was detained.
Additionally, Leung disclosed that all five members of the Electoral Commission had communicated with the Judicial Services Commission to convey their complete confidence in Malimali’s integrity, labeling the complaint about her alleged abuse of office as unfounded.
However, Leung did not clarify if Malimali had resigned from her role as Chairperson of the Electoral Commission.
He stated that FICAC’s powers should be exercised with caution and consideration, rather than in a reactive manner.