The Commission of Inquiry (CoI) addressing the legality of Barbara Malimali’s appointment as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has issued a compelling response to a recent FICAC press release. The CoI’s statement, released on Wednesday, asserts that FICAC’s communication, which urged the public to respect the ongoing inquiry’s process, seems to aim at silencing negative commentary directed toward Malimali.
The CoI emphasized that the FICAC statement reflects an attempt by Malimali to shield herself from criticism, suggesting that this discourse could improperly sway the Commissioner, His Lordship Justice David Ashton-Lewis. The CoI praised Justice Ashton-Lewis as a distinguished jurist with an impressive career across Australia, Papua New Guinea, and Fiji, underscoring that he is not vulnerable to the so-called “external pressure” referenced in the FICAC statement.
Further affirming its integrity, the CoI highlighted the professionalism of its team, including senior counsel from New Zealand, Ms. Janet Mason, who is committed to upholding the principles of natural justice during the inquiry. The CoI concluded by reiterating that a commission of inquiry should not impede media freedom, and it pointed out that FICAC did not consult the CoI before releasing its statement.
This situation showcases the importance of maintaining independence and transparency in the investigation process, signifying a commitment to uphold justice and integrity within Fiji’s systems of governance. Observers can hope that this inquiry will not only clarify the current issues but also strengthen institutional frameworks against corruption, ensuring accountability and public trust in governmental processes.
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