The recent appointment of Barbara Malimali has highlighted concerns regarding the independence of institutions, the lack of due process, and a prime minister who appears unaware of the developments occurring under his administration.
As the Barbara-gate scandal unfolds, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Biman Prasad has emerged amid allegations of undeclared assets, income, and liabilities.
Central to the issue is Ms. Malimali’s rapid appointment as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). There are suggestions that her role is to hinder investigations that could involve the Finance Minister.
Amid these developments, Attorney-General Graham Leung has defended Ms. Malimali’s appointment, with some critics arguing that she has been placed in FICAC to safeguard the interests of those in authority, seeking to evade accountability.
Late yesterday, Acting Deputy Commissioner Francis Pulewai resigned after meeting with the Judicial Services Commission (JSC). She expressed her inability to work with Ms. Malimali, stating that her primary concern was to uphold and respect the rule of law.
Ms. Pulewai mentioned that investigations into Mr. Prasad were already in progress prior to her tenure. With her departure, she hopes that FICAC’s integrity remains intact, justice prevails, and the rule of law is maintained.
In response to Ms. Pulewai’s resignation, Mr. Prasad indicated that the matter is now for the incoming commissioner to resolve. He asserted that his legal team had been managing the allegations and stated that there is no basis for the charges against him.
Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga, supported Ms. Malimali, clarifying that the investigation was previously known to the JSC before Ms. Pulewai resigned. He affirmed that Ms. Malimali had been appointed by the JSC and claimed she was not informed about the investigation until she commenced work.
Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica asserted that due process was adhered to in the appointment, noting the involvement of two respected judges in the JSC. He emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining democracy and the separation of powers, denying any interference in the process.
The People’s Alliance Party Manifesto had previously committed to abolishing FICAC within the first 100 days of their governance.