Allegations of interference made by Francis Puleiwai, the former acting deputy commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), have led prominent leaders to demand an immediate commission of inquiry.
In support of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s initiative, Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu, Fiji Women’s Crisis Center coordinator Shamima Ali, and former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum all endorsed the establishment of the inquiry. Seruiratu emphasized that the inquiry should be initiated after this week’s parliamentary session to ensure fairness, transparency, and good governance.
Ali described Puleiwai’s allegations as “very serious,” asserting that the public deserves to know the truth. Sayed-Khaiyum remarked that it was now up to Rabuka to act, as these claims could significantly impact investments, investor confidence, and the overall economy.
Ali reiterated the need for truth and clarity, expressing her support for the Prime Minister’s leadership in this matter. She argued that an independent commission should be set up to investigate these serious allegations comprehensively. She stressed the importance of ensuring that due process is followed to avoid a recurrence of past abuses where actions were taken without proper oversight.
The leaders collectively emphasized the necessity of thorough investigations into such grave allegations to maintain the integrity of governance in Fiji.