The Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) commenced today. This important inquiry is set to hear from numerous influential figures over the next few days.
Senior legal counsel Janet Mason disclosed that the commission aims to call upon 35 witnesses, including prominent personalities such as Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Chief Justice Salesi Temo, who serves as the chairperson of the Judicial Services Commission. Other notable individuals expected to testify include FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali, former FICAC acting deputy commissioner Francis Puleiwai, and Supervisor of Elections Ana Mataiciwa, along with various ministers like Siromi Turaga and Graham Leung.
Mason emphasized the commission’s independence throughout the inquiry, which seeks to ascertain whether Malimali’s appointment was conducted with integrity, fairness, and transparency. The inquiry will investigate potential improper or unlawful influences during her appointment process.
Due to the sensitive nature of the topics at hand, the hearings will be closed to the public and media. Mason noted that proceedings would be conducted “in camera” as they could involve several pending criminal matters under investigation. Protecting the confidentiality of these discussions is deemed crucial to prevent influencing ongoing inquiries.
The hearings will take place at the Supreme Court complex in Suva, and upon conclusion, a report detailing the findings will be submitted to President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, with a copy also sent to the Prime Minister, by January 31.
This inquiry illustrates the commitment to upholding integrity in public service appointments and reflects the ongoing efforts to ensure transparency in Fiji’s governance. While this process may seem daunting, it is a vital step in fostering public trust in judicial and governmental institutions, highlighting the importance of accountability.
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