Investigations into Barbara Malimali, the commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), began before her appointment was officially announced, according to Francis Puleiwai, the former acting deputy commissioner of FICAC.
Puleiwai clarified that there was a misunderstanding surrounding events on September 5, 2024, the day Malimali took on her role as commissioner. She expressed concern that those who were expected to uphold the law were instead attempting to undermine her credibility.
“A complaint was lodged against the current commissioner, and we conducted an assessment and investigation,” she told ABC News. Puleiwai acknowledged that she authorized Malimali’s arrest but indicated that the Attorney-General and the Judicial Services Commission did not fully grasp the reasoning behind it.
“There is a procedure for questioning suspects. At that time, she was considered a suspect and was invited for a caution interview,” Puleiwai explained. Malimali’s refusal to cooperate led FICAC investigators to exercise their authority to arrest her.
Puleiwai mentioned that there had been two calls for applications for the position of FICAC commissioner prior to Malimali’s appointment. “There seems to be a narrative that suggests my actions were driven by bitterness, making it appear that I unlawfully authorized this situation,” she stated, asserting that she was simply fulfilling her duties as deputy commissioner.
She added that a complaint against Malimali was already under investigation before the position was advertised and criticized the Judicial Services Commission for failing to conduct proper due diligence in Malimali’s appointment.
Attorney-General Graham Leung responded that Puleiwai was entitled to her perspective, noting that the Judicial Services Commission had followed the appropriate process as outlined in the FICAC Act.