The Judicial Services Commission (JSC) is committed to swiftly resolving the issues surrounding Barbara Malimali’s appointment as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) by the deadline of March 31. JSC Secretary Tomasi Bainivalu confirmed that the commission convened to address the recent High Court ruling, which deemed the removal of Ms. Malimali by the President, advised by the Prime Minister, as unlawful.
During the meeting held on February 4, the JSC decided to invite Ms. Malimali, her legal counsel, the Solicitor-General representing the State, and Mr. Valenitabua for the Prime Minister. This step is aimed at gathering their perspectives on adhering to the High Court’s orders. Following these consultations, the JSC will collaborate with Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga to formulate independent recommendations for the President regarding the High Court’s decision. The goal is to ensure any matters related to Ms. Malimali are effectively resolved before the end of March.
Ms. Malimali, a seasoned lawyer and former Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commissioner, was appointed to lead FICAC on September 5, 2024. Her removal sparked significant debate surrounding the scope of presidential powers and the autonomy of the anti-corruption agency, ultimately leading her to seek judicial review in June of the previous year.
The JSC meeting, which included notable figures such as Chief Justice Salesi Temo and Chief Registrar Tomasi Bainivalu, lasted for over three hours, underlining the importance and urgency of addressing these matters. This situation emphasizes the ongoing efforts to uphold the integrity of legal appointments and the independence of institutions tackling corruption in Fiji.
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