The head of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), Barbara Malimali, will not be required to resign during the ongoing Commission of Inquiry into her appointment, according to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. In comments made outside Parliament, Rabuka stated that Malimali does not have to step down unless she faces formal charges.
This announcement follows calls from former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, who suggested that Malimali should “step aside” to ensure the inquiry remains transparent and maintains its integrity. Chaudhry emphasized the need for accountability in the process.
Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner on September 4 has sparked controversy, particularly as she was under investigation by the very agency she now leads. However, Rabuka indicated that Malimali should consider resigning voluntarily if her involvement is deemed to obstruct the investigation.
“As a senior lawyer, she should understand what is in everyone’s best interest,” the Prime Minister remarked.
Rabuka also stressed the importance of the inquiry as a fair and effective way to address the allegations. His remarks came after former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, Francis Puleiwai, alleged that current ministers were interfering with FICAC investigations. Puleiwai also pointed out that the Judicial Services Commission (JDC), responsible for recommending candidates, did not consult her regarding Malimali’s ongoing investigation before making their recommendation.
Rabuka described the inquiry as urgent and necessary, stating that it needs to cover all pertinent areas and terms of reference. Chaudhry echoed this urgency, asserting that if the inquiry reveals any compromise in the process for a predetermined outcome, “it must be trashed.”
Chaudhry further emphasized the necessity for independent offices to function transparently to uphold public trust, insisting that there should be no exceptions to established standards of good governance.
In a separate matter concerning an alleged sexual harassment complaint against former Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Office, Pita Wise, Rabuka noted that further action would be contingent on the complainant’s wishes. Wise resigned last week citing personal reasons.