The Commission of Inquiry (COI) looking into the controversial appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) is considering extending its sessions until late next month. The hearings commenced on Monday and are scheduled to hear testimonies from 35 witnesses over a two-week period. However, due to the complexity of the matters at hand, Justice David Ashton-Lewis, the Commission’s sole commissioner, indicated that an extension may be necessary and is contemplating requesting the President, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, to extend the inquiry deadline to the end of February.
Justice Ashton-Lewis noted that the thorough nature of the questioning and the length of responses from witnesses have contributed to the delays in hearings. With only a limited number of witnesses presenting their evidence thus far, he emphasized the importance of comprehensive questioning to ensure that the truth is revealed during the inquiry. So far, key figures such as Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and the Supervisor of Elections, Ana Mataiciwa, have taken the stand.
With 28 witnesses still awaiting their turn to testify, the COI is committed to conducting a thorough investigation, suggesting an approach that prioritizes depth of understanding over speed. The dedication of the COI and its witnesses showcases a commitment to transparency and accountability in governance, underscoring the significance of the inquiry as it seeks to address public concerns around the independence of the FICAC.
As the inquiry progresses, there is a positive outlook that it will contribute to strengthening the integrity of Fiji’s institutions, demonstrating a collective effort towards combating corruption and promoting ethical governance.
In summary, the COI’s potential extension reflects its commitment to a thorough examination of crucial testimonies, aiming for a comprehensive investigation that benefits the nation’s governance framework.
Leave a comment