Opposition MP Premila Kumar has expressed surprise at the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the new Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), especially since Malimali is reportedly under investigation for alleged abuse of office by the very agency she is set to lead.
Kumar described the situation as both “astonishing and unethical,” questioning the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) for confirming the appointment despite the ongoing investigations. She raised critical questions regarding whether the JSC was aware of these investigations or chose to overlook them.
The MP voiced concerns about the integrity and credibility of the appointment process, suggesting that public trust in FICAC’s impartiality could be undermined when its head is facing serious allegations. Kumar called for transparency and accountability from those in power, emphasizing that the public deserves clear answers.
She has also requested that the Chair of the Judicial Services Commission provide a detailed explanation of how Malimali’s appointment came to be and why it appears that proper due diligence was not conducted in this significant appointment. Kumar concluded by asserting that the people of Fiji deserve leaders of unquestionable integrity in positions of authority.