The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has referred its Commissioner, Barbara Malimali, to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for further evaluation.
According to a statement from FICAC, the referral is related to a complaint alleging Abuse of Office against Malimali during her time as Chairperson of the Electoral Commission.
Additionally, FICAC has confirmed that five cases referred by the Supervisor of Elections earlier in the year have been closed, with notifications of their closure sent out on July 24, 2024.
These five cases include allegations of corrupt practices involving the FijiFirst Party, specifically against the Fiji First Australia Association Incorporated, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and Tito Bainimarama. Other cases involve complaints against Sayed-Khaiyum and Mohammed Saneem for collusion and conflicts of interest, along with a $10,000 donation made to FijiFirst Party by Ariff Ali while serving as a civil servant.
There are also complaints involving His Excellency, the President of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, Sayed-Khaiyum, and Charan Jeath Singh. Another claim targets Voreqe Bainimarama for submitting false declarations of Income, Assets, and Liabilities for the years 2014 to 2019 and 2022, while the final complaint against Sayed-Khaiyum concerns an undisclosed overseas travel allowance.
FICAC noted that other matters referred by the Supervisor of Elections are still ongoing, and the Commission will refrain from commenting until those investigations are concluded.
Furthermore, FICAC emphasizes that it continues to operate normally, ensuring that all processes and procedures remain consistent, and that every complaint is handled with appropriate scrutiny, irrespective of the individuals involved.