Fiji’s first female FICAC Commissioner, Barbara Malimali, has publicly addressed her appointment, emphasizing that she is not a political appointee. Her appointment by President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere was made following the advice of the Judicial Services Commission (JSC).
“People can say what they want about my appointment,” Malimali stated, asserting her qualification for the role. “The claims of me being a political appointee are not true at all, and I personally take offense to that.” She added that questioning the decision of Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo, a respected figure in the judiciary, is irresponsible.
While anticipating criticism from political circles, Malimali acknowledged that it comes with the position. “If you can’t take the critics, then don’t take the job,” she remarked.
In her new role, Malimali is in the process of familiarizing herself with FICAC’s operations. “FICAC is a huge organization with a lot of people,” she explained, noting that she is still getting to know the different departments and colleagues she will work alongside. Despite external challenges, she is focused on organizing herself within the office.
Her appointment has faced scrutiny following the announcement last Thursday and has raised questions from politicians, particularly after the resignation of former acting deputy commissioner Francis Puleiwai on the same day.