The situation surrounding Barbara Malimali has intensified after Ana Mataiciwa, the Supervisor of Elections (SOE), filed a police report against the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). The report, submitted on November 28, 2024, to Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew, includes allegations of abuse of office, intimidation, and harassment of witnesses.
This complaint is associated with a current inquiry by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) regarding Ms. Malimali. Her appointment is under scrutiny due to an ongoing Commission of Inquiry, while the CID is separately looking into claims of abuse of office during her earlier role as chairperson of the Electoral Commission.
Acting Police Commissioner Chew confirmed that an investigation is underway following Mataiciwa’s report. In her response to inquiries, Ms. Mataiciwa noted that she felt compelled to lodge the complaint after receiving requests for information from the Secretary to the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC) and the Chief Registrar’s Office regarding allegations made by Ms. Malimali.
Ms. Mataiciwa expressed concern that Ms. Malimali’s actions could be seen as intimidation towards a key witness involved in the ongoing CID investigation. Meanwhile, former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, Francis Puleiwai, has also lodged a complaint against Ms. Malimali. He claims she misused her power to establish a stop departure order earlier in the year. The case has been referred to the CID for further investigation.
Efforts to reach Ms. Malimali for comments were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
This developing saga reflects the complexities and challenges within governance and election oversight in Fiji. As investigations continue, there may be hope for clarity and accountability in the electoral commission’s functioning. It remains crucial for all parties involved to ensure transparency and uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
Summary: The ongoing Barbara Malimali controversy escalates as Supervisor of Elections Ana Mataiciwa files a police report against FICAC Commissioner, alleging abuse of office and intimidation. This comes amid a CID inquiry and scrutiny surrounding Malimali’s past as chairperson of the Electoral Commission. Investigations are underway, with calls for accountability in governance in Fiji.
Leave a comment