The Barbara Malimali situation has escalated significantly, with Supervisor of Elections Ana Mataiciwa filing a police report against the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). The report, submitted on November 28, 2024, to Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew, accuses the commissioner of abusing their office and engaging in witness intimidation and harassment.
This complaint is part of a broader context involving an ongoing investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) into Malimali’s activities. The CID is probing allegations of misconduct related to her time as chairperson of the Electoral Commission. The scrutiny surrounding Malimali has also intensified due to a Commission of Inquiry examining her appointment.
Mataiciwa explained that her decision to file the report was influenced by communications from the Secretary to the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC) on November 8 and the Chief Registrar’s Office on November 19. The COC had requested a response regarding allegations made by Malimali, which accused Mataiciwa of facilitating her arrest. Furthermore, the Chief Registrar’s Office sought her input, along with two other legal professionals, concerning claims of professional misconduct raised by Malimali.
Mataiciwa argues that Malimali’s actions, being a key witness in the active CID investigation, could be seen as intimidation and harassment. Additionally, former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, Francis Puleiwai, has also filed a complaint against Malimali, alleging she misused her authority by issuing a stop departure order earlier this year. This case has also been referred to the CID for further investigation.
While the ongoing investigations into these allegations raise serious concerns, they also highlight the importance of accountability and transparency in public office. The hope is that these proceedings will ultimately lead to a clearer understanding of the events and restore integrity within the electoral processes in Fiji.
In summary, this saga involving multiple allegations and counter-allegations illustrates the intricate web of accountability and governance challenges that the country’s electoral body is currently facing.
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