Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner Barbara Malimali has pledged to review all investigations by FICAC involving Cabinet Ministers, including her own situation, urging the public to have faith in the process.
On Tuesday, Malimali filed a police complaint against former acting deputy commissioner Francis Pulewai, stating that she will ensure all investigations are conducted diligently. She also mentioned that FICAC had issued a stop order for Pulewai, who left during the weekend following her resignation.
Speaking to the media outside the court yesterday, Malimali noted her recent appointment on September 5 and expressed that she is still acclimating to her role. She indicated that cases under FICAC are progressing and emphasized the importance of allowing the processes to unfold. She will examine all ongoing cases, regardless of the individuals involved.
Since May, the Fijian Elections Office has referred at least eight senior Cabinet ministers to FICAC over alleged electoral infractions. Those ministers include Charan Jeath Singh, Biman Prasad, Lynda Tabuya, Manoa Kamikamica, Siromi Turaga, Aseri Radrodro, and Ifereimi Vasu. Additionally, President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere was referred on February 15, along with Opposition MPs Faiyaz Koya and Semi Koroilavesau.
Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has alleged that both President Katonivere and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka were informed of Malimali’s ongoing investigation prior to her appointment. Chaudhry claims that FICAC notified the President and Prime Minister about the inquiry into Malimali for abuse of office on August 30, and that the President’s office responded on September 3, indicating legal consultations would take place.
Chaudhry also criticized what he views as a deliberate attempt to mislead the public regarding the investigations.
Savenca Narube, leader of Unity Fiji and former Governor of the Reserve Bank of Fiji, expressed concerns not about Malimali personally, but about maintaining the integrity of the investigation process. He suggested that the Judicial Services Commission should suspend Malimali’s appointment until the inquiry is resolved to prevent further complications. Narube warned that failure to act might lead to loss of public confidence in FICAC’s accountability and transparency, jeopardizing efforts to combat corruption in high positions in Fiji.