The Chair of the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) and Acting Chief Justice, Salesi Temo, has defended the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). Temo emphasized that the legal process should take its course.
Currently, Malimali is being investigated by FICAC for alleged abuse of office during her tenure as chairperson of the Electoral Commission. Temo noted that she has not yet been charged and is considered innocent until proven guilty, like any other citizen.
He highlighted that Malimali’s arrest and detention were executed by Francis Puleiwai, who ran unsuccessfully for the Commissioner position, casting doubt on the integrity of the allegations against her.
Temo pointed out that the Commissioner role has been vacant since Rashmi Aslam’s resignation on August 30, 2023. On November 8, 2023, after interviewing Puleiwai, a former FICAC prosecutor, the JSC recommended her for the position of Acting Deputy Commissioner following a consultation with the Attorney-General.
The search for a permanent Commissioner commenced with an advertisement on June 15, 2024, attracting fifteen applicants. However, the JSC decided to re-advertise the position seeking a highly credible and experienced litigation lawyer. Following the second advertisement on July 13, 2024, eight additional applications were submitted, with six candidates shortlisted for interviews held on August 20 and 21, 2024.
After further consultation with Attorney-General Graham Leung on September 2, the JSC recommended Malimali for the post to President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere on September 4.