Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has suggested the possibility of establishing an independent inquiry board to examine the controversy regarding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). However, this decision will rely on the advice and consultations he receives from advisors both within and outside the cabinet.
Malimali’s appointment has faced significant criticism, particularly because it occurred while she was under investigation by FICAC in her capacity as chairperson of the Electoral Commission. Additionally, political and legal analysts have raised concerns about the timing of her appointment coinciding with Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad’s impending charges from the corruption watchdog.
Francis Pulewai, the former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, confirmed that a notification to charge Prasad had been sent to both the Prime Minister and Justice Minister Siromi Turaga the day before Malimali’s appointment. Prasad was reportedly to be charged with failing to declare all his assets, income, and liabilities prior to the last election, with those charges currently on hold following Malimali’s appointment.
Earlier statements from Mr. Rabuka indicated that cabinet ministers facing charges would be moved to the backbench, similar to the case of former Fisheries Minister Kalaveti Ravu. Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has urged Rabuka to act to safeguard the integrity and independence of the institution.
As chair of the Constitutional Offices Commission, Mr. Rabuka is still awaiting Malimali’s resignation from the Electoral Commission, which has not been received ten days after her FICAC appointment. When asked about the possibility of initiating an independent inquiry into what has been perceived as an infringement on FICAC’s independence, Rabuka stated, “If it is allowed for, then we will go ahead,” emphasizing the need for proper advice or consultations outside the cabinet’s scope.
Simultaneously, a petition advocating for Malimali’s removal is circulating, reflecting the growing discontent over her appointment.