Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has indicated the possibility of establishing an independent board of inquiry to look into the issues surrounding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). However, the decision will rely on the advice he receives from both his cabinet advisors and external consultants.
Malimali’s appointment has faced significant backlash as it coincides with an ongoing investigation by FICAC into her role as chairperson of the Electoral Commission. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the timing of her appointment, especially given that Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad was expected to face charges from the corruption watchdog at the same time.
Francis Pulewai, the former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, confirmed that a formal notification to charge Mr. Prasad had been sent to both the Prime Minister and the Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga, just a day prior to Malimali’s appointment. Mr. Prasad faces allegations related to nondisclosure of his assets, income, and liabilities before the last election, but the charges have been suspended following Malimali’s new role.
Earlier, Rabuka pointed out that any cabinet minister facing charges would be moved to the backbench, similar to the former Minister for Fisheries, Kalaveti Ravu. Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry urged Rabuka to intervene to ensure the integrity and independence of FICAC is maintained.
As chair of the Constitutional Offices Commission, Rabuka has yet to receive Malimali’s resignation from the Electoral Commission, ten days after she was appointed to FICAC. When asked about the potential for an independent inquiry or tribunal to address the situation, which some have labeled as an infringement on FICAC’s independence, Rabuka stated, “If it is allowed for, then we will go ahead,” emphasizing the need for appropriate advice and potential external consultations.
Furthermore, a petition advocating for the removal of Ms. Malimali is currently circulating, as concerns regarding her appointment continue to escalate.