The Fiji Labour Party has expressed strong opposition to Barbara Malimali taking office as head of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) while she is currently under investigation.
In a statement, Fiji Labour Party Leader and former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry emphasized that Malimali should resign from her role as FICAC Commissioner until the allegations of abuse of office against her are fully investigated by unbiased authorities.
Chaudhry pointed out that Malimali is under arrest and is being interrogated regarding the complaints filed against her. He also raised concerns about Attorney General Graham Leung, citing the close relationship between him and Malimali. Chaudhry highlighted that in April 2024, Malimali, in her capacity as Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, had written to the Constitutional Offices Commission recommending Leung to replace Ana Mataiciwa as Supervisor of Elections.
He further argued that Malimali’s position becomes increasingly inappropriate considering that she previously represented Jason Zong in court, who was charged with bribery by FICAC in July.