The Supervisor of Elections, Ana Mataiciwa, has lodged a formal complaint against Barbara Malimali, the former Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, alleging serious misconduct including abuse of office, harassment, and intimidation. In a letter addressed to FijiLive, Mataiciwa states that Malimali has targeted not only her but also members of the Fijian Elections Office who are set to testify in an ongoing case concerning allegations of abuse against Malimali from her earlier tenure.
Mataiciwa outlines specific instances of alleged harassment, noting that Malimali has inappropriately extracted sensitive and confidential information from her previous position to exert pressure on the Elections Office. This follows an incident where the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) executed a raid on the Electoral Commission’s office in September, during which assistance was sought from the Fijian Elections Office’s legal team.
Mataiciwa accuses Malimali of conducting a “witch-hunt” aimed at discrediting the Fijian Elections Office as witnesses in the pending case against her. She asserts that Malimali’s actions constitute harassment of witnesses, a significant breach of constitutional rights, and contravene sections of the Crimes Act that address abuse of office and obstruction of justice.
Mataiciwa has urged the Fiji Police Force to initiate an investigation into Malimali’s conduct, signaling a serious call for accountability in this ongoing situation. FijiLive has also reached out to FICAC for their perspective on the matter.
This development sheds light on a deeply concerning situation within Fiji’s electoral management, emphasizing the importance of integrity and transparency in public office. As authorities respond to these allegations, it is hopeful that a thorough investigation will uphold the rule of law and restore public confidence in the electoral process.
Summary: Ana Mataiciwa, the Supervisor of Elections, has filed a complaint against former Electoral Commission Chair Barbara Malimali for harassment, intimidation, and abuse of office related to an ongoing case against Malimali. Mataiciwa calls for police investigation into the misconduct, highlighting the need for accountability in public office.
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