The Barbara Malimali case has taken a significant turn, as Supervisor of Elections Ana Mataiciwa has filed a police report against the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). The report, submitted to Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew on November 28, 2024, includes allegations of abuse of office, intimidation, and harassment of witnesses related to the ongoing investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) concerning Ms. Malimali.
This escalation occurs amid scrutiny of Ms. Malimali’s appointment by a Commission of Inquiry. The CID is also investigating claims of abuse of office during her time as chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC). Commissioner Chew confirmed that the case is currently under investigation.
Mataiciwa explained that her decision to file this complaint followed official inquiries she received from the Secretary to the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC) on November 8 and the Chief Registrar’s Office on November 19. “The COC requested my response to a complaint linked to allegations made by Ms. Malimali,” Mataiciwa indicated, adding that the Chief Registrar’s Office sought her response regarding a professional misconduct complaint filed by Ms. Malimali.
Mataiciwa emphasized that Ms. Malimali’s position as a significant witness in a CID investigation makes her actions indicative of intimidation and harassment. Additionally, Francis Puleiwai, the former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, has also lodged a complaint against Ms. Malimali, alleging abuse of power related to a stop departure order issued earlier this year. This case has also been referred to CID for further investigation.
In a context filled with tension and allegations, there remains hope that clarity and justice will emerge from these investigations. Such scrutiny can lead to stronger accountability and reforms in the electoral process, benefitting the integrity of public office in Fiji.
This developing story signals a critical moment in the governance landscape of Fiji. Continued coverage will shed light on the implications of these allegations and the ongoing investigations.
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