Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has criticized the appointment of Barbara Malimali, urging Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to take action. Chaudhry expressed disappointment that the Prime Minister has opted to remain passive and rely on the Judicial Service Commission, which recommended Malimali for the position in the Office of the President.
Chaudhry, who leads the Fiji Labour Party, argued that Malimali’s appointment is questionable given that she is currently under investigation for alleged abuse of office, which he claims undermines the rule of law and good governance principles. He further alleged that this move was politically motivated to shield Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad from potential charges related to filing false declarations with 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) by the Registrar for similar infractions after the acting Deputy Commissioner, Francis Puleiwai, resigned. Chaudhry noted that these ministers were referred for violations of the Political Parties Act.
Chaudhry expressed concern over the government’s handling of the FICAC appointment, stating that it has alarmed the nation, unsettled the business community, and diminished investor confidence. He urged the Prime Minister to stop being passive, stressing that the situation regarding Malimali’s appointment is of national importance. He warned that inaction could lead to a worsening public perception of the government as self-serving and lacking in integrity.
He raised questions about Malimali’s intentions, insisting that her claim to review files of senior political figures hints at ulterior motives. Chaudhry also questioned her silence regarding her own case and who would oversee her judgment. He cautioned that any efforts to hinder or obscure the investigation could further escalate an already tense situation.