The Commission of Inquiry (CoI) has advised a review of former Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner Barbara Malimali’s management of an investigation into a Cabinet minister. This recommendation comes from a leaked document believed to be part of the CoI’s official findings regarding Malimali’s actions.
According to the report, despite FICAC’s announcement of the investigation’s closure concerning the minister, the CoI expressed serious concerns about the decision-making process that led to this conclusion. It recommended a thorough examination of Malimali’s handling of the case to ascertain whether her conduct constituted abuse of office or interference in the justice process. Additionally, the CoI has called for an independent individual to evaluate the case file.
The alleged report raises issues of diminished public confidence in the independence and integrity of FICAC, indicating that Malimali’s conduct may have inadvertently compromised trust in the institution. Transcriptions from her questioning suggest that Malimali requested extensive analysis of the minister’s case, which had already produced sufficient evidence for proceeding with charges, and these continued demands could be viewed as attempts to delay legal action.
In context with similar prior articles, the ongoing scrutiny surrounding Malimali emphasizes the broader challenge facing FICAC. In previous statements, Malimali affirmed her commitment to reviewing every investigation conducted by FICAC, including those involving Cabinet Ministers, while assuring the public of her diligence in ensuring proper processes are implemented.
Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry and Unity Fiji leader Savena Narube have emphasized the critical need for transparency and accountability from FICAC, urging that all matters be addressed without obfuscation. They advocate for maintaining integrity within Fiji’s anti-corruption efforts, suggesting that the Judicial Services Commission should consider suspending Malimali’s position amid ongoing inquiries to reinforce public confidence in FICAC’s operations.
The situation highlights an ongoing effort to restore trust and ensure that investigations remain unbiased and thorough, pivotal for effective governance and public integrity. Such measures, along with the commitment shown by individuals in positions of authority to acknowledge and address past deficiencies, bode well for enhancing accountability within the Fijian government.
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