A Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) is currently underway and has been marked by a strict confidentiality order. This directive was effectively communicated to all participants involved in the inquiry, which aims to assess the lawfulness of Malimali’s appointment amidst ongoing criminal investigations.
Commission counsel Janet Mason highlighted that all witnesses were reminded of their obligation to maintain confidentiality regarding the proceedings. Violation of this order could lead to legal consequences under Section 202 of the Crimes Act, which emphasizes the importance of upholding the integrity of the inquiry.
The inquiry has recently faced controversy involving witness Alex Forwood, who has allegedly threatened to disclose confidential video recordings from the proceedings. This situation underscores the challenges faced by the inquiry in ensuring that all participants feel secure in providing their testimonies without fear of reprisals.
Mason elaborated that various prominent figures, including Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and representatives from the Prime Minister’s and Solicitor-General’s offices, are involved in the inquiry. The hearings are structured to allow some witnesses to attend open sessions and others to testify in closed sessions, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the issues surrounding Malimali’s appointment.
The current process reflects a significant step towards fostering accountability and transparency within the FICAC. The inquiry is crucial not only for addressing the allegations surrounding Malimali but also for reinforcing public trust in the governance mechanisms of Fiji. It is an encouraging sign that officials are actively participating in an inquiry aimed at seeking truth and promoting integrity within public institutions.
As the inquiry progresses, the hope is that it will contribute positively to the future of governance in Fiji, ensuring that all processes surrounding public appointments are conducted with the necessary integrity and fairness.
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