Attorney General Graham Leung has emphasized that due process was followed in the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the new Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). Leung expressed concern that Francis Pulewai, the Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, may have authorized Malimali’s arrest and exercised arrest powers against her, despite her legitimate appointment.
Leung clarified that Malimali’s official appointment was made by President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, based on the advice of the Judicial Services Commission, in line with legal requirements. He urged Pulewai to respect this appointment, noting that Malimali’s arrest raises significant concerns, particularly as she was reportedly detained.
Additionally, Leung disclosed that all five members of the Electoral Commission had sent a letter to the Judicial Services Commission to show their full confidence in Malimali’s integrity, labeling the abuse of office complaint against her as unfounded. However, Leung did not clarify whether Malimali had resigned from her role as Chairperson of the Electoral Commission.
The Attorney General reiterated the importance of using FICAC’s powers with caution and careful consideration, rather than in a reactive manner.