Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has openly criticized current Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for his lack of action regarding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). Chaudhry argues that Rabuka can no longer depend on the Judicial Services Commission’s decision to place Malimali on leave, as he holds the authority to directly recommend her suspension.
Chaudhry highlighted that NZ King’s Counsel Professor Philip Joseph pointed out during a recent Commission of Inquiry that the Prime Minister has a crucial role in overseeing government actions, especially concerning Malimali, who is under investigation for alleged misconduct. He insisted that if Rabuka wishes to tackle corruption effectively within his administration, he must take a proactive stance rather than remaining passive.
This recent criticism aligns with Chaudhry’s earlier concerns about the political motivations behind Malimali’s appointment, suggesting it could be a tactic to shield Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad from facing potential corruption charges. Chaudhry stressed that this situation could severely impact public trust, the business environment, and overall investor confidence in Fiji.
He cautioned that a failure to act decisively risks further undermining public perception of the government, potentially portraying it as self-serving and lacking in integrity. Chaudhry has emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, urging the Prime Minister to act ethically and uphold the rule of law as investigations progress.
This situation underscores the critical importance of governance and legal integrity in Fiji, highlighting a collective demand among citizens and political leaders for a government dedicated to ethical practices and accountability. Chaudhry’s insistence on action might serve as a crucial turning point, pushing for reforms that could enhance governance and restore public trust in government institutions. The ongoing investigations signify an urgent need for integrity and commitment to upholding the public’s confidence in their leaders.
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