Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has stated that the head of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), Barbara Malimali, is not required to step down during the ongoing Commission of Inquiry into her appointment. In comments made outside Parliament, Mr. Rabuka explained that Malimali does not need to resign unless formal charges are brought against her.
This statement comes in response to former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry’s call for Malimali to “step aside” to ensure the inquiry’s transparency and integrity. Chaudhry emphasized the necessity of accountability in such matters.
Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner on September 4 has sparked controversy, particularly as she was under investigation by the very agency she now oversees. Mr. Rabuka mentioned that Malimali should consider stepping down voluntarily if her role is found to hinder the inquiry.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the inquiry’s importance, describing it as the most suitable means to address the allegations raised. His comments followed allegations from former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, Francis Puleiwai, who claimed there was ministerial interference in FICAC investigations by current ministers. Puleiwai also pointed out that the Judicial Services Commission (JDC) did not reach out to her about Malimali’s ongoing investigation before making their recommendation.
Mr. Rabuka insisted that the inquiry is urgent and must thoroughly cover all related matters. He echoed Mr. Chaudhry’s sentiment regarding the immediate need for transparency, stating that if the inquiry determines that procedures were manipulated to achieve a predetermined outcome, the process must be discarded.
Chaudhry also highlighted the necessity for independent offices to function transparently to maintain public trust, stressing that good governance should be upheld without exceptions.
In another matter, regarding an alleged sexual harassment complaint against former Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Office, Pita Wise, Mr. Rabuka indicated that any further action would depend on the complainant’s wishes. Wise resigned last week, citing personal reasons.