A petition calling for the removal of Barbara Malimali from her position as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has gained more than 100 signatures. Initiated by Alexandra Forwood on change.org, the petition aims to persuade Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to discuss Ms. Malimali’s termination with President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
Forwood alleges that Malimali’s appointment was made under questionable circumstances, claiming she was under investigation by FICAC prior to assuming the role of Commissioner. Forwood has also accused Ms. Malimali of potential abuse of office. “We humbly request you sign our petition,” she stated.
In response, Ms. Malimali expressed that everyone is entitled to their opinion regarding her appointment, emphasizing the freedom of expression in the country. The call for her dismissal has garnered support from notable political figures such as Savenaca Narube and former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, both of whom have criticized Malimali’s appointment and urged Rabuka to address the reported “abuse of power” within FICAC.
Central to the controversy is a leaked FICAC letter that details alleged charges against Finance Minister Biman Prasad. Prasad was expected to face charges two weeks ago for allegedly failing to declare his assets, income, and liabilities prior to the last election, coinciding with Malimali’s recent appointment as FICAC Commissioner. Francis Puleiwai, the Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC who is currently in Australia, has described the delay in addressing these charges as “sad.”
Alexandra Forwood, the petition’s author, is a former resident of Fiji now based in Australia. Her adoptive father spent over 40 years working and living in Fiji and married a local woman. She has remained actively engaged in discussions surrounding Fiji’s political landscape.