The Commission of Inquiry (COI) regarding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has now entered its second week. Tanya Waqanika, Malimali’s defense counsel, described the ongoing proceedings as a lengthy but necessary process and suggested that an extension of the inquiry may be warranted due to its complexity.

During a recent conversation, Waqanika chose not to comment on the perceptions that the inquiry might be a deliberate attempt to undermine Malimali’s credibility. However, she did express that her client remains optimistic, noting their shared moments of support, including attending church together recently.

Presiding over the inquiry is Supreme Court Justice David Aston-Lewis, who aims to determine whether Malimali’s appointment in September 2024 was made in accordance with legal protocols and was free from any external influences. The investigation will closely examine potential vested interests linked to ongoing FICAC cases involving notable politicians and high-ranking public officials.

As the inquiry progresses, testimonies from key figures such as the Acting Director of Public Prosecutions and various former ministers are expected, with the final report scheduled to be delivered to Fiji’s President and Prime Minister later this month. This inquiry is viewed as a significant step towards enhancing transparency and accountability within Fiji’s governance framework.

Overall, the COI not only seeks to address the legitimacy of Malimali’s appointment but also embodies a broader commitment to improving the standards of ethical practices in public service. There is hope that the findings will pave the way for essential reforms, restoring public confidence in government institutions and reinforcing the importance of integrity within Fiji’s governance.