Investigations into Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner Barbara Malimali reportedly began prior to the advertisement for her position, according to former FICAC Acting Deputy Commissioner Francis Puleiwai. She clarified that there has been a misunderstanding regarding events that occurred on September 5, 2024, when Malimali took on her role as commissioner.
Puleiwai expressed concern that those expected to uphold the rule of law were instead attempting to shift blame onto her. She stated, “The complaint was lodged against Barbara Malimali, and an assessment was conducted, which led to the investigation.”
She corroborated that she had authorized Malimali’s arrest, but claimed that the Attorney-General and Judicial Services Commission did not grasp the reasons behind this decision. “There is a process for bringing in suspects. At that moment, she was considered a suspect and was invited for a caution interview,” Puleiwai explained.
According to her, when Malimali did not comply with the invitation, investigators had the authority to arrest her. “The arrest occurred that morning, and we expected a certain reaction from her,” she commented.
Puleiwai further pointed out that before the official job advertisement was released, a complaint against Malimali had already been filed with FICAC, and investigations were underway without her knowledge of Malimali’s job application. She criticized the Judicial Services Commission for not performing sufficient due diligence when appointing Malimali as FICAC Commissioner.
Attorney-General Graham Leung responded, stating that Puleiwai was entitled to her views. “The JSC made recommendations and adhered to the appointment procedures outlined in the FICAC Act,” he affirmed.