Police investigations into the unfinished case involving FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali will play a crucial role in the upcoming Commission of Inquiry. This unresolved case is a significant hurdle, and its resolution could influence the future leadership of Fiji’s foremost anti-corruption agency.
As the police take on the investigation into Ms. Malimali’s alleged abuse of office, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is reassessing the Commission of Inquiries Act to inform his recommendations on the potential inquiry. His ruling will be essential, especially as public scrutiny regarding FICAC’s operations and the credibility of vital national institutions grows.
Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew confirmed that the outcomes of their investigation will be critical for shaping the Commission of Inquiry. “We are committed to due diligence and will share our findings once the investigation concludes,” he stated, emphasizing that the process will adhere to appropriate procedures.
Last month, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) transferred Ms. Malimali’s case to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) following a review by Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku and Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva.
The investigation remains unfinished primarily due to the lack of an interview with Ms. Malimali. The allegations against her, which focus on abuse of office during her tenure as chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Fiji, raise serious concerns about potential misconduct at high levels of public service.
FICAC has faced criticism as well, facing accusations of interference from senior government ministers and members of the judiciary, which has heightened demands for a thorough investigation.
Political analysts have reproached the Government for its slow response to these controversies, warning that it exacerbates the decline in public trust toward Fiji’s institutions. Prime Minister Rabuka has acknowledged that the ongoing FICAC situation has damaged confidence.
He assured citizens that his administration is dedicated to transparency and accountability throughout the inquiry. He called for patience while the framework for the Commission of Inquiry is being established, as the terms of reference and appointments are still pending. Nevertheless, the Prime Minister indicated that these issues would be addressed in due time.