The Minister for Justice has criticized the investigations by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) that are targeting high-ranking Cabinet Ministers, labeling them “acts of malice.” Siromi Turaga indicated that an investigation is set to reveal the source of the leak regarding FICAC’s letter from the previous Wednesday, which disclosed plans to charge Biman Prasad, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance.
Despite his vehement disapproval, Mr. Turaga acknowledged that he also received a letter regarding his own case that is under FICAC’s scrutiny. Coincidentally, Acting Deputy FICAC Francis Puleiwai resigned last Thursday, citing a commitment to “the rule of law” and her personal integrity.
Mr. Turaga stated, “The release was actually done with malice. In the coming weeks, it will become clear that someone will be held accountable.” He noted that the FICAC letter was leaked prior to its delivery to his office, implying “collaboration and malice” behind the breach.
He criticized the timing of the leak, which coincided with the transition of FICAC leadership to new Commissioner Barbara Malimali. Mr. Turaga argued that the complaint against him should have been reviewed by the Supervisor of Elections, but this did not occur. “We have been defamed over allegations that remain unclear,” he remarked.
Mr. Turaga also defended the selection of Ms. Malimali as the new FICAC Commissioner amid ongoing criticisms, asserting that the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) adhered to due process in her appointment. “Perhaps this will provide some perspective on why the JSC deemed it necessary to move forward with the appointment,” he added.
JSC chairperson and Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo, along with Attorney-General Graham Leung, also supported Ms. Malimali’s appointment.
In related news, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stated that he was not fully aware of the details regarding FICAC’s investigations. “The only two ministers who approached me were Ravu, who is now suspended, and Biman, who was ultimately not charged,” Mr. Rabuka mentioned. “I have no involvement with the work, appointment, or decisions regarding FICAC.”