The situation surrounding Barbara Malimali has intensified as Ana Mataiciwa, the Supervisor of Elections, has formally filed a police report against the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). This report, submitted on November 28, 2024, to Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew, includes serious allegations of abuse of office, intimidation, and witness harassment.
This incident is part of a broader investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) related to Malimali, who is currently under scrutiny from a Commission of Inquiry regarding her past role as chairperson of the Electoral Commission. The CID is specifically looking into allegations of misconduct from her tenure.
Mataiciwa explained that her decision to file the report was spurred by requests from the Secretary to the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC) and the Chief Registrar’s Office, prompting her to respond to accusations made by Ms. Malimali. Mataiciwa claimed these allegations involve accusations that she facilitated Malimali’s arrest, which she views as efforts to intimidate a critical witness in the ongoing investigation.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, former FICAC Acting Deputy Commissioner Francis Puleiwai has also lodged a complaint against Malimali, alleging that she misused her authority to impose a stop departure order.
Commissioner Chew has confirmed that the CID is currently investigating these allegations, indicating the seriousness of the situation.
While this saga unfolds, it demonstrates the ongoing complexities and challenges within Fiji’s electoral integrity and governance. As investigations move forward, there remains hope for clarity and resolution in addressing these allegations, reinforcing the integrity of Fiji’s electoral processes.
In summary, both Mataiciwa’s and Puleiwai’s actions signal a significant moment in the investigation of electoral governance in Fiji, with potential implications for the country’s anti-corruption efforts.
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