The Commission of Inquiry (COI) investigating the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) is requesting an extension for its hearings until the end of February. This request is made due to the substantial volume of evidence that still needs to be reviewed, as the COI has only heard testimony from seven of the 35 witnesses summoned.

Justice David Ashton-Lewis, presiding over the inquiry, emphasized the necessity of a thorough and detailed examination of testimonials, stating that simple responses are inadequate for fully understanding the complexities of the case. The COI was initially scheduled to submit its final report to the President by January 31, but only seven witnesses have provided their accounts thus far, indicating significant work remains to be done.

The inquiry’s primary objectives include assessing whether Malimali’s appointment adhered to legal standards and determining if it was influenced by vested interests, particularly concerning ongoing FICAC investigations involving high-profile political figures. Counsel Assistant Janet Mason underscored the importance of evaluating the integrity of the institutions involved, not just the actions of individuals.

Witnesses have presented factual and unbiased accounts, which are essential for maintaining the professionalism and integrity of the inquiry. Should the extension be granted, it would enable the COI to conduct a more exhaustive review of the evidence, strengthening public confidence in the commitment to transparency and accountability within Fiji’s governance framework.

In summary, the ongoing inquiry highlights a proactive approach to governance in Fiji. If successfully extended, the COI could not only fulfill its mandate of thorough investigation but also pave the way for meaningful reforms that enhance integrity within public institutions, fostering a stronger culture of accountability and trust in the democratic process.