Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has revealed that he has not yet received official communication regarding Barbara Malimali’s resignation as chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC). This comes in light of Ms. Malimali’s recent appointment as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) on September 4.
Her appointment has sparked controversy due to her ongoing investigation by FICAC. Mr. Rabuka noted, “The resignation should be presented to the commission, as they appointed her as chair of the Electoral Commission. We should be officially informed. Currently, the secretary of the commission has yet to notify the chair. I will await his confirmation.”
While Ms. Malimali has confirmed her resignation from the role of EC chairperson, she did not elaborate on the circumstances surrounding her departure.
The Constitutional Officers Commission (COC) serves as an advisory body mandated by the 2013 Constitution, tasked with recommending candidates and advising the President on key public office appointments. This includes positions such as the chairperson and members of the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission, the chairperson and members of the Electoral Commission, Supervisor of Elections, Parliament Secretary-General, Public Service Commission chairperson and members, Commissioner of Police, Fiji Correction Services Commissioner, Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander, Auditor-General, and Governor of the Reserve Bank of Fiji.