Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has voiced his astonishment over the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the new commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). This reaction was echoed by fellow Opposition MP Premila Kumar, who deemed the decision both surprising and unethical, pointing out that Malimali is currently under investigation by the very agency she is set to lead.
Speaking to the media, Seruiratu expressed concern that the appointment tarnishes the Government’s image. “I’m shocked, but not surprised,” he remarked, emphasizing that issues of good governance and institutional integrity have been consistently highlighted by the Opposition. He clarified that their grievances were directed at the appointing authority and the Government, not at Malimali herself.
Kumar further called on the Government to clarify how Malimali was appointed FICAC commissioner given the ongoing investigations against her. She raised critical questions: “Was the Judicial Services Commission unaware of these ongoing investigations? Or did they choose to overlook them?” Kumar articulated the need for transparency, questioning how the public can trust FICAC to operate impartially when its leader faces serious allegations.
She insisted that the chair of the Judicial Services Commission must provide a thorough explanation regarding the decision-making process behind this crucial appointment, particularly due diligence considerations. Questions have been directed to the JSC concerning the confirmation of Malimali’s appointment.