Opposition Member of Parliament Jone Usamate has voiced strong concerns regarding the Commission of Inquiry’s (COI) findings on the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). He emphasized the importance of ensuring that the report does not become forgotten, urging accountability from the Chief Justice, Chief Registrar, and Solicitor General.
Usamate’s demand for transparency comes amid his assertion that the report calls for serious actions, including the reinstatement or compensation of four senior FICAC officers, who he asserts are career professionals and not political appointees. He stressed that ignoring these findings would send a concerning message about accountability in governance.
He pointedly questioned if Acting Commissioner Lavi Rokoika would respect the Commission’s recommendations or pursue her own path, potentially disregarding the integrity of the office she represents. “This is not politics; it’s about principle,” Usamate stated, underlining the necessity for a transparent and accountable governance process.
Similar to previous statements made regarding Malimali’s appointment, Usamate has consistently highlighted that the dismissal of the COI’s recommendations could result in further erosion of public trust in FICAC and the integrity of governance overall. He has called upon the government to take decisive action stemming from the inquiry’s results, emphasizing that the public deserves clarity and integrity rather than political theater.
The push for accountability and the proper implementation of governance principles are crucial for fostering a political climate that emphasizes transparency and fairness. As citizens await action from the government, there remains hope that these discussions will lead to significant reforms that enhance public confidence in governmental institutions.
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