The Supervisor of Elections, Ana Mataiciwa, has lodged a formal complaint against former Electoral Commission Chairperson Barbara Malimali, citing claims of abuse of office, harassment, and intimidation. In a communication sent to FijiLive, Mataiciwa detailed several allegations against Malimali, who now serves as the Commissioner for the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).

Mataiciwa’s complaint suggests that Malimali has engaged in harassment and intimidation of both Mataiciwa and staff members at the Fijian Elections Office, particularly those who are witnesses in an ongoing abuse case against her from her previous role. Allegations include Malimali’s misuse of confidential information to target the Fijian Elections Office and the Supervisor of Elections related to this active case.

The complaint mentions that FICAC had conducted a raid at the Electoral Commission Office in September, which prompted the Electoral Commission to seek legal support from the Fijian Elections Office. Mataiciwa accused Malimali of launching a “witch-hunt” to undermine the credibility of the Fijian Elections Office, asserting that this is an attempt to obstruct justice by targeting these witnesses.

Mataiciwa emphasized that such actions constitute harassment and intimidation, violating the constitutional rights of the witnesses and representing an abuse of authority. She has urged the Fiji Police Force to take action against Malimali for these alleged criminal activities.

This development underscores ongoing tensions within Fiji’s electoral framework, reflecting deeper systemic issues related to accountability and governance. As investigations proceed, there is hope for a thorough review of the allegations, which could ultimately lead to greater transparency and integrity within the electoral process in Fiji.

In summary, Ana Mataiciwa’s complaint against Barbara Malimali points to serious allegations of misconduct, offering a critical moment for potential reform and renewed trust in Fiji’s electoral system.