The Commission of Inquiry (COI) is actively seeking an urgent meeting with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to discuss critical concerns surrounding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner. This arises after Malimali expressed worries over former FICAC investigations manager Kuliniasi Saumi’s access to sensitive documents amidst the inquiry.
Counsel assisting the COI, Janet Mason, revealed that an email was dispatched to the Prime Minister earlier this week, though a meeting time is yet to be confirmed. Mason stated, “We’ve requested a meeting with the Prime Minister tomorrow… This meeting with the Prime Minister will be discussing the issue with the COI. But mainly her appointment process.”
The inquiry is assessing whether any irregularities surrounded Malimali’s appointment, which has become a matter of public scrutiny. Mason emphasized the importance of the investigation’s integrity, especially with respect to witness safety, as the COI continues to delve into the potential influences affecting the commission’s legitimacy.
In her communication, Malimali raised alarms about Saumi’s unrestricted access to FICAC files. Mason indicated that she had sought assurances on witness protection from Acting Deputy Commissioner Lisiate Fotofili and that these assurances were now under review.
Amidst these developments, there is growing public interest regarding how the inquiry fits within its terms of reference, specifically regarding potential conflicts of interest among public officials with ongoing cases before FICAC. Mason affirmed the COI’s commitment to operate within its mandated scope while addressing fears of undue influence.
As the investigation approaches its conclusion with Chief Registrar Tomasi Bainivalu scheduled to appear next week, there is hope that the outcomes of this inquiry will lead to necessary reforms, enhancing transparency and accountability within Fiji’s governance. This COI presents a significant opportunity for reforms and is viewed as a pivotal step toward restoring public confidence in government institutions.
Leave a comment