Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has stated that the Prime Minister’s proposal to establish a board of inquiry regarding the Barbara Malimali situation is a prudent step, given the public discourse surrounding the matter.
“While the Prime Minister has acknowledged receiving Barbara Malimali’s resignation letter on September 14, the processes followed by either party remain unclear to many of us,” Mr. Seruiratu commented.
“This aspect is significant in this case, as the timeline indicates she resigned on September 3, was introduced to FICAC staff the following day, and officially began her role as FICAC Commissioner on September 5.
“The question arises: is this standard procedure and consistent with her contract as chair of the Electoral Commission?
“An inquiry would clarify these issues.”
In a separate development, Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry has alleged that both the Prime Minister and President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere were aware of Ms. Malimali’s investigation by FICAC prior to her becoming Commissioner.
He asserted in a statement that both received a letter from FICAC on August 30, indicating an investigation into Ms. Malimali for alleged abuse of office.
Mr. Chaudhry suggested that Ms. Malimali’s appointment might have been “politically motivated to prevent ministers from facing charges and investigations.”
“Any interference with the due process in these documented cases would further diminish public trust in our law enforcement agencies and the Rabuka administration,” he warned.
“There is too much at stake here, and I urge the Prime Minister to act honorably. We must prioritize the truth above all else.”