Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has acknowledged the receipt of a letter from the Commission of Inquiry (COI), which recommends the suspension of Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner Barbara Malimali. This recommendation comes in light of the controversial dismissal of FICAC Manager of Investigations, Kulianiasi Saumi, which occurred on Friday and has raised serious concerns about potential intimidation tactics against whistleblowers.
Rabuka clarified that he is one of three recipients of the letter, along with the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) and President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, but emphasized that the matter is under the jurisdiction of the JSC. He noted, “Her appointment is not handled by the Constitutional Offices Commission; it is dealt with by the Judicial Services Commission.”
Counsel Assistant to the COI expressed that Saumi’s termination could discourage other witnesses from providing testimony, thereby undermining the integrity of the inquiry. As a result, the COI recommended Malimali’s suspension while the investigation is ongoing.
The JSC, which is overseen by Chief Justice Salesi Temo, has yet to issue a public statement regarding the COI’s recommendation. Meanwhile, Malimali has not commented on the situation or on a complaint regarding her involvement in Saumi’s dismissal.
Despite the complexities surrounding these developments, the COI has confirmed its commitment to proceeding with the inquiry, underscoring the importance of transparency and accountability in addressing potential corruption within FICAC.
In summary, this situation highlights the ongoing struggles within Fiji’s anti-corruption efforts, illustrating the need for vigilance in ensuring that all parties involved can participate freely and fairly in inquiries.
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