Francis Puleiwai, the acting Deputy Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), has formally resigned from her position, delivering her resignation letter to the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) yesterday. Following a meeting with the JSC, Puleiwai conveyed to the media that she could not continue her role within the organization.
Puleiwai explained that her decision was influenced by reports suggesting that Barbara Malimali would continue as FICAC Commissioner. Her resignation took immediate effect. In her statement, she expressed concern about working in an environment where a suspect was present, referring to the recently appointed Commissioner Malimali, who faced questioning from investigators at her workplace earlier that day.
When asked if she felt the independence of FICAC had been compromised, Puleiwai expressed hope that it had not. She stated, “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.”
Puleiwai addressed inquiries regarding her motivations for investigating Malimali, asserting, “I don’t have any vested interest. The only interest that I have is for the rule of law to be upheld.” She clarified that the complaint against Malimali existed prior to her application for the position and emphasized her commitment to upholding and respecting the rule of law.