A petition calling for the removal of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has gained over 100 signatures. Initiated by Alexandra Forwood on change.org, the petition aims to persuade Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to meet with President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere to discuss terminating Ms. Malimali’s appointment.
Ms. Forwood alleges that Ms. Malimali’s appointment was shrouded in questionable circumstances, indicating that she was under investigation by FICAC prior to assuming the role of commissioner. Additionally, Ms. Forwood suggests that Ms. Malimali should face charges for alleged abuse of power.
“We humbly request you sign our petition,” Ms. Forwood stated.
In response, Ms. Malimali expressed that individuals are free to express their opinions regarding her appointment, emphasizing the country’s democratic values.
The movement to change the leadership of FICAC has received support from prominent political figures, including former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry and Savenaca Narube, who have condemned Ms. Malimali’s appointment and called on Prime Minister Rabuka to address what they describe as an ‘abuse of power’ that is now associated with FICAC.
At the heart of the controversy is a leaked FICAC letter detailing impending charges against Finance Minister Biman Prasad. Mr. Prasad was expected to be charged two weeks prior over claims he had not declared all his assets, income, and liabilities leading up to the last election, just as Ms. Malimali took up her new role.
Francis Puleiwai, the Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC currently in Australia, described the postponement of the charges as “sad.”
Alexandra Forwood, a former resident of Fiji living in Australia, has a personal connection to the country through her adoptive father, who worked there for over 40 years. She has been an outspoken commentator on various political issues affecting Fiji.