The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has reaffirmed its dedication to impartial and evidence-driven decision-making. The Commission aims to assure the public that all investigations are carried out without bias, favor, or fear.
FICAC responded to remarks made by Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu regarding a case involving former Minister for Women, Lynda Tabuya. The Commission confirmed it had received a complaint, referred by the Supervisor of Elections, on April 5, 2024, which accused Ms. Tabuya of failing to declare her spouse’s income and business interests, as mandated by section 24 of the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act.
An investigation was initiated on April 24, 2024, under the authority of Former Acting Deputy Commissioner Francis Puleiwai, which confirmed that Ms. Tabuya’s marriage to Robert Semaan had been legally dissolved in December 2016. The investigators recommended closing the case on August 5, 2024, and the file was officially closed by Ms. Puleiwai on August 12, 2024. The Supervisor of Elections was notified of the closure through a formal letter on September 20, 2024.
FICAC clarified that neither party was represented by Commissioner Barbara Malimali during the divorce proceedings, as she was in private practice. Seruiratu expressed concerns over the integrity of FICAC’s operations and suggested that Malimali’s decisions may have been influenced by Tabuya.
The Commission has strongly refuted these claims, emphasizing that the entire investigative process concerning Ms. Tabuya took place prior to Malimali’s appointment as Commissioner. FICAC urged public figures to fact-check their statements regarding the Commission’s operations to prevent misinformation.
This situation underscores the importance of integrity and transparency in governance and reinforces FICAC’s mission to uphold these principles. By maintaining accountability, FICAC seeks to strengthen public trust in governmental operations.
In summary, FICAC has dispelled concerns raised by Inia Seruiratu regarding its impartiality in investigating Lynda Tabuya. The organization’s firm response highlights its commitment to thorough, unbiased investigations, aiming to foster public confidence in anti-corruption efforts.
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