The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has sent the case involving its Commissioner Barbara Malimali to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP) for further evaluation. This referral relates to allegations of Abuse of Office against Ms. Malimali during her previous role as the Chair of the Electoral Commission of Fiji (ECF).
Additionally, FICAC announced that five cases previously referred by the Supervisor of Elections earlier this year have been officially closed, with the Supervisor informed of this closure on July 24, 2024.
The closed cases include allegations of corrupt practices linked to the FijiFirst Party, specifically concerning Fiji First Australia Association Incorporated and individuals Mr. Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and Mr. Tito Bainimarama. Other closed cases involved complaints against Mr. Sayed-Khaiyum and Mr. Mohammed Saneem regarding collusion and conflict of interest, as well as Mr. Arif Ali for making a $10,000 donation to the FijiFirst Party while serving as a civil servant. Further complaints included allegations against His Excellency the President of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, and Mr. Sayed-Khaiyum, as well as accusations against former Prime Minister Mr. Voreqe Bainimarama for submitting false declarations of income, assets, and liabilities from 2014 to 2019 and in 2022. Additionally, there were complaints about Mr. Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum for failing to declare travel allowances.
As for the remaining cases referred by the Supervisor of Elections, investigations are still ongoing and FICAC has stated that it will refrain from commenting until these inquiries are concluded. The Commission emphasized that its operations continue as normal, ensuring that all complaints are handled with the necessary diligence, regardless of who is involved.