The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has passed on its Commissioner, Barbara Malimali, to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for further evaluation. This action stems from a complaint alleging Abuse of Office against Malimali during her time as Chairperson of the Electoral Commission.
In addition, FICAC has announced the closure of five cases earlier referred by the Supervisor of Elections. This closure was officially communicated on July 24, 2024.
The cases that were closed include:
1. Allegations of corrupt practices involving FijiFirst Party False Declarations against Fiji First Australia Association Incorporated, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and Tito Bainimarama.
2. A complaint regarding collusion and conflict of interest against Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and Mohammed Saneem, along with Ariff Ali for donating $10,000 to FijiFirst Party while being a civil servant.
3. Complaints submitted against His Excellency, The President of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and Charan Jeath Singh.
4. A claim against Voreqe Bainimarama for providing false declarations of Income, Assets, and Liabilities from 2014 to 2019 and for the year 2022.
5. A complaint against Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum for not declaring overseas travel allowances.
FICAC noted that other matters referred by the Supervisor of Elections are still ongoing, and no further comments will be made until the investigations conclude. The Commission emphasized that it continues to function normally, ensuring all complaints are scrutinized rigorously, regardless of the individuals involved.