Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has criticized the appointment of Barbara Malimali, asserting that Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has the authority to intervene. Chaudhry expressed disappointment that the Prime Minister has chosen to distance himself from the issue, relying on the Judicial Service Commission’s recommendation for Malimali’s position in the Office of the President.
Chaudhry argued that Malimali’s appointment, while she is being investigated for alleged misconduct, contradicts the principles of law and undermines good governance. He suggested that this appointment appears to be a political maneuver aimed at shielding Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad from potential charges related to false declarations made to the Registrar of Political Parties.
He pointed out that seven other Cabinet ministers have also been referred to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) for similar allegations following the resignation of acting Deputy Commissioner Francis Puleiwai. Chaudhry claimed that these ministers were reported to FICAC after the Registrar confirmed they had violated section 24 of the Political Parties Act.
Chaudhry emphasized that the apparent disregard for legal protocols surrounding Malimali’s appointment has alarmed the nation, unsettled the business sector, and diminished investor confidence. He urged the Prime Minister not to remain passive, as Malimali’s appointment has escalated into a significant national issue, stating that he must take action to restore public trust in his administration.
He warned that inaction would further suggest that the government is self-serving and lacking in integrity. Notably, he raised concerns about Malimali’s intentions to review the files of senior political figures, questioning the motivations behind her appointment and criticizing her silence regarding her own investigation. He concluded that any attempts to obstruct or trivialize the inquiries would only worsen an already tense situation.