The recent appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) is being criticized by Senior Opposition Member of Parliament Jone Usamate, who described the move as inappropriate. While he expressed no personal grievances against Malimali, Usamate emphasized his support for women’s representation in important roles.
He raised concerns over the apparent neglect of principles related to transparency and accountability, suggesting that good governance had been overlooked. Usamate noted that the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC) typically relies on an independent team to assess applications for key positions carefully. He questioned whether the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) had engaged such a team during the hiring process for Malimali.
Usamate stressed the JSC’s responsibility to uphold public trust in independent institutions, even if it requires acting against its own interests. He acknowledged that while Malimali may be qualified, as indicated by Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo’s remarks about her high score, certain issues merit scrutiny.
He called for an examination of whether the Office of the President conducted adequate due diligence regarding Malimali’s fitness for the role, especially considering she had reportedly been under investigation, which he believed should have prompted a delay in her appointment by both the JSC and the President’s Office.
Additionally, Usamate sought clarity on whether the COC had received a resignation letter from Malimali for her previous position as chair of the Electoral Commission and whether she had completed the necessary notice period prior to her resignation.
He also highlighted the need for answers regarding who directed Acting Deputy Commissioner Francis Puleiwai not to file formal charges against Biman Prasad, calling it a significant abuse of authority that warrants an independent investigation, potentially involving the Police.
Usamate concluded by reminding that good governance is essential for a robust and effective government. He expressed dismay over remarks from the Minister of Justice, who referred to investigations of Cabinet Ministers as “acts of malice,” questioning if some individuals in the country were above scrutiny and referencing George Orwell’s notion of inequality among equals.