Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has voiced his surprise at the recent appointment of Barbara Malimali as the new commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). Accompanying his shock, fellow Opposition MP Premila Kumar expressed that the appointment is both surprising and unethical, given that Malimali is currently under investigation by the very agency she is set to lead.
In a media briefing, Seruiratu stated that this decision reflects poorly on the Government. “I’m shocked, but not surprised,” he remarked, emphasizing that concerns regarding good governance and institutional integrity have been raised consistently.
He clarified that while there are no personal objections against Malimali, the responsibility lies with the appointing authority, which is the Government.
Kumar highlighted the need for transparency regarding how Malimali was appointed as FICAC commissioner despite the ongoing investigations. She questioned whether the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) was unaware of these investigations or if they chose to overlook them. Kumar expressed concern that the integrity and credibility of the appointment process are at stake, asking how the public can trust FICAC to operate impartially under the leadership of someone facing serious allegations.
She called upon the chair of the JSC to provide a detailed explanation of the decision-making process, especially since it appears due diligence was not adequately exercised in this critical appointment. Inquiries were directed to the JSC on Tuesday regarding the matter.