Inia Seruiratu, the Leader of the Opposition, has urged for the ousting of FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali amidst serious allegations made by Supervisor of Elections Ana Mataiciwa. These allegations include claims of abuse of office, intimidation, and harassment aimed at witnesses, prompting an official police report.
Seruiratu highlighted the need for immediate action, stating that Malimali should either resign or be suspended while the investigation proceeds. He emphasized that ensuring transparency is crucial for public confidence in governmental institutions, especially in a role that is fundamentally tied to integrity and anti-corruption efforts.
The opposition leader argued that maintaining high accountability standards is non-negotiable and reiterated that the citizens of Fiji deserve transparency and integrity from their officials. He questioned how Malimali could continue in her capacity as the nation’s leading anti-corruption figure while facing such serious accusations.
Additionally, Seruiratu stressed that the onus is not solely on Malimali but also on the Judicial Services Commission (JSC), which appointed her. He warned that failure to act could lead to suspicions about the JSC’s own integrity and potentially warrant a deeper investigation into its conduct.
This situation illustrates the critical importance of accountability within public service, especially in roles dedicated to promoting honesty and transparency. While the allegations are concerning, they also present an opportunity for institutional introspection and reform, potentially leading to stronger safeguards against corruption in the future.
Summary: Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has called for FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali to resign or be suspended due to serious allegations made against her, including abuse of office and harassment. He insists that swift action is necessary to uphold public trust in institutions and safeguard the integrity of the judicial service in Fiji.
Leave a comment