The Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga, has urged the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) to probe the unauthorized release of a confidential letter that outlines potential charges against Finance Minister Biman Prasad. This letter, dated September 5 and sent by former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, Francis Puleiwai, has circulated extensively on social media.
The leaked document indicated that FICAC had concluded its investigation and suggested charges against Mr. Prasad for not declaring all his assets, income, and liabilities before the recent General Election. This leak occurred shortly after Barbara Malimali’s contentious appointment as FICAC Commissioner on September 4, and the case has since been suspended.
In an interview with Fiji Sun from Australia, Ms. Puleiwai criticized Mr. Turaga’s inquiry into the leak, remarking, “It is amusing that Mr. Turaga is inquiring about who leaked the letter.” She explained that the original letter is sent to the intended recipients, while the office retains a copy on blue paper. The leaked letter was the original printed on white paper, sent to the Minister for Justice, with copies forwarded to the Attorney-General, the President, and the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). She emphasized that the commissioner does not have access to the original letter.
Ms. Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner has generated significant controversy, particularly as she was under investigation by FICAC at the time of her appointment. In light of public and media concern, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced a Commission of Inquiry (COI) to look into the circumstances surrounding her appointment. A Cabinet meeting is scheduled to discuss the COI’s scope and mandate, although there are worries regarding the inquiry’s independence, given that some Cabinet members are currently being investigated by FICAC.
Prime Minister Rabuka stated that the inquiry would address allegations of ministerial interference, the appointment process for Ms. Malimali, and threats against Ms. Puleiwai.
Former Prime Minister and Fiji Labour Party leader, Mahendra Chaudhry, has expressed concerns about potential conflicts of interest in having the Cabinet define the COI’s terms of reference. He criticized Mr. Rabuka’s claim that the appointment process was lawful and included the JSC, cautioning that such statements could mislead the public and influence the inquiry’s conclusions. Mr. Chaudhry raised questions regarding the legitimacy of Ms. Malimali’s appointment considering she was under investigation at that time. He also pointed out the necessity for broader support from government officials to ensure Ms. Puleiwai’s safety should she return to Fiji for the inquiry.