Barbara Malimali, the newly-appointed FICAC Commissioner, has addressed concerns regarding her appointment just one week after taking on the role. She emphasized that all necessary protocols were followed prior to her assumption of the position on September 5.
In a conversation with this publication, Ms. Malimali remarked, “I think all of this has been blown out of proportion, so for me, the best thing was not to say anything at all.” She clarified that she resigned from her previous role as chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Fiji on September 3, ensuring that there was no overlap with her new responsibilities at FICAC.
She criticized comments made by Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu and former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry regarding the selection process by the Judicial Services Commission, labeling them as irresponsible. Ms. Malimali pointed out that Mr. Seruiratu should reflect on his past silence regarding the appointment of former Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Francis Kean, who was convicted of murder in 2006.
“As for Hon Seruiratu, perhaps you might want to enquire with him about Mr. Francis Kean’s appointment as Commissioner of Prisons. Did he raise any concerns about that appointment considering Mr. Kean was sentenced to 18 months in jail in 2007 for the murder of John Whippy?” she questioned. She accused both Seruiratu and Chaudhry of undermining the integrity of the Acting Chief Justice and the members of the Judicial Services Commission (JSC).
In response, Mr. Seruiratu urged Ms. Malimali to stay focused on the current issues rather than diverting the conversation. He stated, “I, as the former Defence Minister, was not responsible for the appointment of the Corrections Commissioner at that time. I only became a member of the COC after I took up the role of Leader of the Opposition.”
Former Prime Minister Chaudhry also expressed his concerns, stating that Ms. Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner, while she was under investigation for abuse of office, undermined the principles of good governance and the rule of law.