The Fiji Labour Party (FLP) has criticized Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for publicly commenting on the legitimacy of Barbara Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner before an inquiry takes place. The FLP stated in a release that Malimali’s appointment was unlawful as she was under investigation by FICAC at that time. They believe the Judicial Services Commission made a mistake in appointing her without clearance from FICAC.
FLP Leader Mahendra Chaudhry described claims regarding the lawful conduct of her appointment as misleading. He pointed out the numerous issues surrounding Malimali’s appointment, as well as the motivations of those involved and the subsequent resignation of Francis Puleiwai as Deputy Commissioner.
Chaudhry suggested that the timing of the appointment seemed designed to interfere with an independent authority’s work and possibly hinder the expected arrest of Professor Biman Prasad, who faces multiple allegations of submitting false financial documents to the Registrar of Political Parties.
Concerns were also raised regarding the Prime Minister’s plans to discuss the terms of reference and appointment of the proposed inquiry in Cabinet next Tuesday. Chaudhry noted that several Cabinet Ministers are currently under investigation by FICAC due to complaints from the Registrar of Political Parties, creating a clear conflict of interest.
He questioned whether these ministers should have the authority to shape the inquiry’s terms and select its members. The FLP mentioned that the Prime Minister has offered Puleiwai assurance of her return to Fiji should she choose to participate in the inquiry. While Chaudhry emphasized the importance of her involvement for the inquiry’s success, he correctly noted that the Prime Minister’s guarantee relies on the support of his ministers and the involved governmental bodies.