The Barbara Malimali situation has intensified, as Ana Mataiciwa, the Supervisor of Elections, has filed a police report against the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner. This report was submitted on November 28, 2024, to Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew and includes claims of abuse of office, intimidation, and harassment of witnesses.
This complaint is tied to an ongoing investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) concerning Ms. Malimali. As Ms. Malimali’s appointment comes under scrutiny from a Commission of Inquiry, the CID is also looking into accusations of misconduct during her time as chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC).
Confirming the report, Mr. Chew stated that investigations are currently in progress. Ms. Mataiciwa explained that her decision to file the complaint stemmed from notices she received from the Secretary to the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC) dated November 8 and from the Chief Registrar’s Office on November 19.
Specifically, the COC requested her response regarding a complaint made by Ms. Malimali, where she accused Ms. Mataiciwa of facilitating her arrest. Additionally, requests for responses were made regarding a professional misconduct complaint by Ms. Malimali involving Ms. Mataiciwa and two other legal practitioners. Ms. Mataiciwa asserted that, given Ms. Malimali’s role as a key witness in an ongoing CID investigation, her conduct constitutes intimidation and harassment.
Furthermore, Francis Puleiwai, the former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, has also filed a complaint against Ms. Malimali, alleging she misused her powers by enforcing a stop departure order earlier this year. This case has also been directed to the CID for further examination.
Attempts to reach Ms. Malimali for a statement were unsuccessful at the time of this report.
This unfolding drama within Fiji’s electoral system highlights the complexities and challenges faced by the institutions involved. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of transparency and integrity in governance, ensuring that all parties act in accordance with the law. As investigations proceed, there remains hope that the truth will emerge, fostering accountability and reinforcing public confidence in the electoral process.
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