The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has clarified that the investigation concerning former Minister for Women Lynda Tabuya, who was accused of failing to declare her spouse’s income, was concluded by the previous Acting Deputy Commissioner, Francis Puleiwai. The closure of this case was formally recorded on August 12, 2024, prior to the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the new Commissioner on September 5, 2024.
In response to comments made by Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu, FICAC stated that his claims suggesting political influence in the closure of Ms. Tabuya’s case were unfounded. The Commission emphasized that all proceedings were handled impartially and based on factual evidence, asserting that the complaint received was originally referred by the Supervisor of Elections on April 5, 2024. Following this, an investigation was initiated on April 24, 2024, which discovered that Ms. Tabuya’s marriage to Robert Semaan was legally dissolved in December 2016, leading investigators to recommend the file’s closure on August 5, 2024.
The FICAC firmly rejected any implications of bias in its operations and called for caution among public officials before making statements that could undermine its credibility. The Commission stands by its dedication to transparent and unbiased conduct in all its investigations.
This situation highlights the importance of due diligence for public figures when making assertions about institutions charged with maintaining integrity in governance. FICAC’s commitment to impartiality serves as a reassuring message to the public, reinforcing confidence in the efforts to combat corruption in Fiji.
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