Opposition Member of Parliament Premila Kumar has raised concerns regarding the suspension of FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali, questioning why her termination was not pursued. In a statement, Kumar urged Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to clarify whether Malimali’s appointment was found to be lawful or improper following the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry (COI).
Kumar acknowledged the initial steps taken by the Prime Minister in reacting to the COI’s recommendations; however, she emphasized that many significant questions remain unanswered and called for full transparency. “The COI’s core role was to evaluate if legal procedures were upheld in Ms. Malimali’s appointment,” Kumar noted, stressing the importance of clarity from the Prime Minister.
Furthermore, the MP scrutinized the role of the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) in Malimali’s selection, highlighting that her appointment was made by the President upon the JSC’s recommendation, chaired by Chief Justice Salesi Temo. If legal or ethical breaches were identified in the appointment process, Kumar argued, it should have led to Malimali’s revocation rather than mere suspension. She also pointed out that accountability must extend to the JSC’s chair and its members.
Kumar expressed her disapproval of the reinstatement of former acting deputy FICAC Commissioner Lisiate Fotofili as a resident magistrate without a formal application or vetting, calling the circumstances “deeply problematic.” She argued that such actions raised legal and ethical concerns, especially given the previous vacancy had likely been filled.
Questions regarding Kumar’s concerns have yet to receive a response from Prime Minister Rabuka, leaving the situation in a state of uncertainty. This lack of transparency could further erode public trust in governance and underscores the necessity for clear accountability and ethical practices within leadership roles.
Overall, the situation calls for a reevaluation of governance practices in Fiji. It’s critical for leaders to act with integrity to restore public confidence in vital institutions, ensuring that those appointed to oversee important agencies are above reproach and uphold the nation’s standards of ethics and legality.
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