Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced an inquiry into the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) to investigate the actions of others involved. He clarified that this would be a Commission Inquiry rather than a Board of Inquiry and stated, “We cannot change the decisions; we cannot change the processes.” However, he acknowledged the possibility of some individuals engaging in improper activities.
Earlier, Mr. Rabuka expressed agreement with critics who raised concerns about Barbara Malimali’s resignation as chair of the Electoral Commission and her subsequent appointment as FICAC Commissioner. He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to uphold the integrity of the process.
The controversy surrounding Ms. Malimali’s appointment intensified when Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu questioned whether she had resigned from the Electoral Commission without informing the members of the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC), which is responsible for such appointments. Mr. Rabuka, also the chair of the COC, indicated that he was unaware of Ms. Malimali’s resignation until he was approached by the media. He later revealed that he received notification from the COC secretariat ten days after she assumed her role at FICAC.