Attorney-General Graham Leung has defended the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the new Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), claiming that the process followed was appropriate and based on merit. Speaking to the media from his office, Leung highlighted that Malimali was chosen from a shortlist of five candidates.
He noted that Malimali currently has an active investigation involving FICAC. “The position of the head of FICAC has been vacant for several months,” Leung stated, emphasizing that the appointment falls under constitutional procedures. He explained that the Judicial Services Commission is responsible for recommending the head of FICAC to the President, who officially appointed Malimali.
Leung, as the responsible unelected minister for FICAC under the 2013 Constitution, pointed out that an extraordinary event transpired on what was supposed to be Malimali’s first day at work. She was detained for questioning regarding allegations of abuse of office. Planned press coverage featuring Acting Deputy FICAC Commissioner Francis Pulewai was abruptly canceled.
Leung expressed concern over the situation, indicating that it was surprising for the new Commissioner to be detained by her own staff. He questioned the legality of this arrest, suggesting that such actions by FICAC, which has extensive powers that can affect citizens’ liberty and reputations, should always be handled with caution.
In her defense, Ms. Pulewai stated that she was following due process in her actions and emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law in response to allegations of corruption.