Francis Puleiwai, the acting Deputy Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), submitted her resignation to the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) yesterday. After a meeting with the JSC, Puleiwai informed the media of her inability to continue working within the institution.
Puleiwai stated that her resignation was influenced by reports indicating that Barbara Malimali would continue in her role as FICAC Commissioner. Her resignation became effective immediately.
“I have tendered my resignation to the JSC,” Puleiwai announced. “Unfortunately, I will not be able to work in that institution when we know that a suspect is there.” She referred to the newly appointed Commissioner, Malimali, who was questioned by investigators upon her arrival at work yesterday morning.
When asked whether she felt FICAC’s independence was compromised, Puleiwai expressed hope that it was not the case. “I hope for the best and I hope that justice will prevail in this matter and that all of this will be brought to light,” she said.
Responding to concerns raised by Attorney-General Graham Leung regarding the motives behind her investigation into Malimali, Puleiwai emphasized that she had no personal agenda. “The only interest that I have is for the rule of law to be upheld and to be respected,” she said. “The complaint was there before I even applied. I was merely doing that today.”