Opposition Member of Parliament Premila Kumar has voiced her shock over the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the new Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). This reaction stems from the revelation that Malimali is currently under investigation by FICAC for alleged abuse of office.
Kumar described the situation as both “astonishing and unethical,” criticizing the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) for confirming the appointment of someone who is under investigation by the very agency she is set to lead. She posed critical questions regarding whether the JSC was aware of these investigations when making their decision or if they chose to overlook them.
The MP expressed serious concerns about the integrity and credibility of the appointment process, suggesting that public confidence in FICAC’s ability to perform its duties impartially may be compromised when its leader is linked to serious allegations. Kumar emphasized the need for transparency and accountability from those in positions of power.
Additionally, she has called on the Chair of the Judicial Services Commission to provide a thorough explanation of how this decision was reached and why it appears that proper due diligence was not conducted. Kumar insisted that the citizens of Fiji deserve better leadership and that it is crucial for authorities to act in the nation’s best interest, ensuring that institutions are governed by individuals of unimpeachable integrity.