The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has reaffirmed its dedication to impartiality and evidence-based decision-making, ensuring the public that all investigations and subsequent actions are conducted without bias, favor, or fear.
In response to comments made by Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu about the recent activities involving former Minister for Women Lynda Tabuya, FICAC clarified that they received a complaint on April 5, 2024, from the Supervisor of Elections alleging that Tabuya failed to declare her spouse’s income and business affiliations as mandated by the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act.
An investigation was authorized by Former Acting Deputy Commissioner Ms. Francis Puleiwai on April 24, 2024, which revealed that Tabuya’s marriage to Mr. Robert Semaan had been legally dissolved in December 2016. Consequently, FICAC made a recommendation to close the file on August 5, 2024, with formal closure completed on August 12, 2024. The Supervisor of Elections was officially notified of this closure on September 20, 2024.
FICAC stated that neither party was represented by Barbara Malimali during the divorce proceedings when she was in private practice. In reaction to Seruiratu’s claims questioning the integrity of FICAC Commissioner Malimali in relation to the case’s closure, the Commission clarified that all actions regarding Tabuya’s case occurred before Malimali’s appointment as Commissioner, thus disputing the allegations made by Seruiratu.
FICAC expressed disappointment over the statements made by Seruiratu, describing them as detrimental to the organization’s work and stressing the importance of verifying facts before publicly commenting on the Commission’s operations.
This situation underscores the necessity for accountability within public institutions and highlights the importance of maintaining trust in regulatory bodies like FICAC. The Commission’s diligence in clarifying these matters serves as a reminder of the need for transparency and accuracy in public discourse.
Overall, this incident can foster a renewed commitment to integrity among public officials and reinforce the importance of upholding ethical standards in governance.
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