Former Acting Deputy Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), Francis Puleiwai, has expressed her desire to return to her role amid recent turmoil within the agency. Following the suspension of FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka reached out to Puleiwai, offering her the choice of reinstatement or compensation in light of concerns raised in a recent Commission of Inquiry (COI) report regarding Malimali’s appointment.
Puleiwai confirmed that she is eager to resume her position to continue her work at FICAC. She acknowledged receiving communication from the Prime Minister and stated her intent to restore proper procedures within the agency. “Going forward, there is a lot of work to be done at FICAC when I return,” she remarked, emphasizing her commitment to righting procedural errors that were highlighted during her absence.
The COI report concluded that Malimali’s appointment was illegal and recommended revocation, leading to her suspension instead, following advice from the Prime Minister to President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu. In the interim, lawyer Lavinia Rokoika has taken on the role of Acting FICAC Commissioner as investigations into Malimali’s conduct continue.
Puleiwai’s return could signify a turning point for FICAC, as she aims to enhance accountability and transparency within the organization. She reflected on her past experiences, asserting that “truth will always prevail” and expressed gratitude for divine guidance during this challenging period.
This situation presents an opportunity for significant reform in Fiji’s anti-corruption framework, which many citizens hope will restore integrity and public trust in governance. As Puleiwai awaits the Prime Minister’s response, the potential for positive change in FICAC remains an optimistic outlook for Fiji’s future in combating corruption effectively.
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