Ana Mataiciwa, the Supervisor of Elections, has lodged a complaint against former Electoral Commission Chairperson Barbara Malimali, accusing her of misconduct that includes abuse of office, harassment, and intimidation. In a letter to FijiLive, Mataiciwa detailed allegations that Malimali has been harassing her and other witnesses from the Fijian Elections Office (FEO) involved in an ongoing abuse case related to Malimali’s former role.
The complaint cites Malimali’s alleged misuse of sensitive information from the Electoral Commission, which she purportedly used to instigate intimidation against the FEO and Mataiciwa amid active investigations. It was noted that the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) had conducted a raid on the Electoral Commission Office in September, prompting the Electoral Commission to seek legal support from the FEO.
Mataiciwa characterized Malimali’s behavior as part of a pattern of intimidation aimed at discrediting the FEO in their witness roles in the ongoing legal matters, asserting that these actions obstruct the course of justice and infringe on the constitutional rights of the witnesses.
Mataiciwa has urged the Fiji Police Force to initiate an investigation into these allegations, calling for appropriate actions to be taken against Malimali for her purported criminal behavior.
The unfolding situation highlights significant concerns regarding the integrity and accountability within electoral processes, suggesting a need for vigilance in upholding justice. Authorities might view this as an opportunity to reinforce their commitment to fair conduct and strengthen the mechanisms in place to protect those who uphold electoral integrity.
As the situation develops, it remains crucial for all parties involved to adhere to the principles of justice and transparency, promoting a healthy democratic process in Fiji. The call for investigations signifies a proactive approach to addressing any lapses in governance within electoral bodies.
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