The situation surrounding Barbara Malimali has escalated significantly, with Supervisor of Elections Ana Mataiciwa taking legal action against the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner. On November 28, 2024, Mataiciwa filed a police report alleging abuse of office, intimidation, and harassment of witnesses, which is related to a current investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) into Malimali.
This shift comes as Malimali’s appointment is under examination by a Commission of Inquiry. The CID is scrutinizing allegations of her misconduct during her time as chairperson of the Electoral Commission. Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew confirmed that the police report has been received and that an investigation is in progress.
In her statements, Mataiciwa noted that the decision to file the complaint was prompted by communications from the Secretary to the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC) and the Chief Registrar’s Office. These communications included a request for clarification regarding Malimali’s accusations against Mataiciwa related to her alleged involvement in Malimali’s arrest, as well as a call for responses concerning potential professional misconduct.
Mataiciwa argued that Malimali’s actions, given her role as a witness in the ongoing investigation, represent clear intimidation and harassment. Additionally, former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, Francis Puleiwai, has filed a counter-complaint against Malimali, asserting that she misused her authority to issue a stop departure order earlier in the year.
Chew confirmed this matter has also been referred to CID for further inquiry. Efforts to reach Malimali for comments after this latest development were unsuccessful.
Despite the turmoil surrounding these allegations, the investigation may eventually lead to transparency and accountability within the electoral process. This situation underscores the importance of maintaining integrity within public office and the legal system, allowing for the possibility of reforms that could strengthen governance in Fiji’s electoral body.
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