The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has handed over the case involving its commissioner Barbara Malimali to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for further evaluation.
In a statement released yesterday, FICAC indicated that this referral pertains to a complaint regarding alleged abuse of office during Ms. Malimali’s time as chair of the Electoral Commission of Fiji.
Last week, Ms. Malimali stated she was unaware of an ongoing investigation against her until a raid was conducted at the Electoral Commission’s office by investigators on September 3. She added that she was not informed in advance about her detention and questioning by investigators when she arrived at work at FICAC on September 5.
FICAC also confirmed that it has closed five cases previously referred by the Supervisor of Elections earlier this year, with the Supervisor being notified of this closure on July 24, 2024. These cases relate to alleged corrupt practices involving false declarations by the FijiFirst party, including specific allegations against the FijiFirst Australia Association Incorporated, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and Tito Bainimarama.
Additionally, the cases include a complaint regarding collusion and conflict of interest involving Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and Mohammed Saneem, as well as a case against Arif Ali for donating $10,000 to the FijiFirst party while being a civil servant. Complaints were also raised against President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and Charan Jeath Singh.
Other allegations involve Voreqe Bainimarama for submitting false declarations of income and assets for the years 2014 to 2019 and 2022, and a complaint about Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum for not declaring overseas travel allowances.
FICAC stated that other matters referred by the Supervisor of Elections are still ongoing, and it will refrain from commenting until these investigations are concluded. The organization reassured that it operates normally and that its processes and procedures remain unaffected.
FICAC also emphasized its commitment to addressing all complaints with the necessary scrutiny, regardless of the identity of the individuals involved.
In related news, Fiji Labour Party (FLP) leader Mahendra Chaudhry has called for Ms. Malimali to step aside to facilitate the inquiry suggested by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. Chaudhry responded to Rabuka’s remarks indicating the need for an inquiry to resolve concerns regarding Ms. Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner.
He urged the Prime Minister to promptly establish the inquiry and stressed the importance of ensuring that it is truly independent, with members who have no ties to any involved parties or to the decision-making processes related to the case.