Pressure is mounting on the Government, particularly Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, to swiftly establish an independent Board of Inquiry regarding the contentious appointment of Barbara Malimali as the new Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).
Political analysts emphasize the necessity of this investigation, despite concerns about potential costs and time requirements. Opposition MP Premila Kumar stated that the public of Fiji is seeking clarity and is closely observing the situation. She pointed out that this is not the first time the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) has made a controversial decision, referencing the previous appointment of John Rabuku as acting Director of Public Prosecutions, which was later deemed invalid by the Supreme Court.
Kumar questioned the urgency surrounding Malimali’s appointment, especially given the awareness of her ongoing investigation. She argued that it would be illogical to promote someone who is under scrutiny to such a significant position.
Although Prime Minister Rabuka has indicated plans to initiate a Board of Inquiry, former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry expressed concerns about the Coalition Government’s lax approach to this matter. Crossbench MP Mosese Bulitavu praised Rabuka’s intention to set up an inquiry, noting that the current discussions about FICAC are taking place under Rabuka’s leadership, with some ministers, including the Attorney-General, publicly defending Malimali’s appointment.
Bulitavu highlighted that while FICAC operates independently from the Prime Minister, any issues raised will invariably reflect on Rabuka as the head of the Government, and he believes a Board of Inquiry would help resolve the ongoing controversy.
Malimali was approached for a comment but declined to provide any statements. Efforts to obtain responses from Attorney-General Graham Leung and the JSC were unsuccessful.