Attorney-General Graham Leung has defended the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), asserting that her selection adhered to the proper procedures.
During a media briefing at his office, Leung explained that Malimali was appointed based on merit, having been shortlisted among four other candidates. Notably, she is currently under investigation by the nation’s corruption watchdog.
Leung pointed out that the head of FICAC had been vacant for several months and clarified that, under the Constitution, this position is filled by the Judicial Services Commission, which makes recommendations to the President. He confirmed that Barbara Malimali was duly appointed by the President that morning.
According to the 2013 Constitution, Leung holds the position of Minister responsible for FICAC.
Significant developments unfolded the same day at Reverend John Hunt House 3, where Malimali reported for her first day but was unexpectedly detained for questioning regarding allegations of abuse of office. Initially, the media had been informed that Acting Deputy FICAC Commissioner Francis Pulewai would hold a press conference at 11 am, which was later canceled.
Leung indicated that Malimali’s detention appeared to have been sanctioned by Pulewai, who resigned that day and was involved in executing the arrest. He described the situation as extraordinary, emphasizing that the powers of FICAC are extensive and have the potential to limit citizens’ liberties while affecting personal reputations.
He expressed his surprise at the unprecedented nature of the events, underlining the troubling circumstance of the new commissioner being arrested by her own staff. Leung raised questions regarding the legality of Malimali’s purported arrest.
In response, Pulewai stated that she was executing due process in the detention of Malimali, asserting that she adhered to due diligence in handling the matter to uphold the rule of law following a corruption complaint.