The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has submitted a case involving its Commissioner Barbara Malimali to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP) for further evaluation. This case pertains to allegations of Abuse of Office during Ms. Malimali’s time as the Electoral Chair with the Electoral Commission of Fiji (ECF).
Additionally, FICAC has confirmed the closure of five cases that were initially referred by the Supervisor of Elections earlier this year, with the notification of closure conveyed on July 24, 2024. The cases that have been concluded include:
– Allegations of corrupt practices related to FijiFirst Party False Declarations involving Fiji First Australia Association Incorporated, Mr. Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and an individual named Tito Bainimarama.
– A complaint against Mr. Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and Mr. Mohammed Saneem regarding collusion and conflict of interest, alongside Mr. Arif Ali for contributing $10,000 to the FijiFirst Party while serving as a civil servant.
– Complaints against His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, Mr. Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and Mr. Charan Jeath Singh.
– A complaint against Mr. Voreqe Bainimarama for filing false declarations of Income, Assets, and Liabilities for the years 2014 to 2019 and 2022.
– A complaint against Mr. Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum for failing to disclose an overseas travel allowance.
Regarding other matters referred by the Supervisor of Elections, these investigations are ongoing, and FICAC has stated that it will refrain from making further comments until the inquiries are complete. FICAC affirmed that it continues to operate normally, with all processes and procedures unaffected, and remains committed to rigorously addressing every complaint, independent of the individuals involved.