Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has expressed strong opposition to the appointment of Barbara Malimali, urging Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to take action. Chaudhry criticized the Prime Minister for remaining passive, suggesting he is evading responsibility by relying on the Judicial Service Commission’s recommendation of Malimali for the Office of the President.
Chaudhry contended that Malimali’s appointment is problematic given her ongoing investigation for alleged abuse of office, arguing that it contradicts the rule of law and undermines principles of good governance. He further alleged that the situation has been politically manipulated to shield Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad from potential charges regarding false declarations filed with the Registrar of Political Parties.
He noted that seven other Cabinet ministers were also referred to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) by the Registrar for similar infractions, coinciding with the resignation of acting Deputy Commissioner Francis Puleiwai and Malimali’s sudden shift from the Electoral Commission to lead FICAC.
Chaudhry expressed concern over the implications of how the FICAC appointment was handled, stating it has shocked the nation, unsettled the business community, and diminished investor confidence. He emphasized that the Prime Minister cannot remain passive on this matter, which he regards as a national concern, calling for decisive action to restore faith in his government.
He also questioned Malimali’s intentions, noting her plans to review files of senior political figures while remaining silent about her own situation. Chaudhry warned that any attempts to hinder or obscure the investigations could escalate the already tense circumstances.