The recent appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has highlighted concerns about institutional independence and due process. This comes amid a growing scandal involving Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Biman Prasad, who is accused of failing to declare multiple assets, income, and liabilities.
Malimali’s swift appointment has raised suspicions that she may be intended to shield the Finance Minister from investigations. Attorney-General Graham Leung has defended Malimali, with critics suggesting her goal may be to protect powerful interests from accountability.
In a significant development, Acting Deputy Commissioner Francis Pulewai resigned, stating her inability to work with Malimali and emphasizing her priority to uphold the rule of law. Pulewai noted that an investigation into Prasad was already underway before her departure and expressed hope that FICAC’s integrity would be preserved.
In response to Pulewai’s resignation, Prasad pointed out that his legal team has been addressing the allegations and maintains that there is no basis for them.
Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga confirmed that Malimali had lodged a complaint regarding a FICAC search at the Electoral Commission. Following her introduction to FICAC staff, she was questioned by investigators shortly after starting her new role but was released after a few hours.
Turaga reiterated that Malimali had no prior knowledge of the investigation when she arrived at FICAC. He criticized the leak of information about the case on social media, stating it undermined the confidentiality of the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) process.
Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica assured that due process had been followed in Malimali’s appointment and emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining democracy and the separation of powers. Notably, the People’s Alliance Party had proposed dismantling FICAC within its first 100 days in office.