The head of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) will not be required to resign while the Commission of Inquiry into her appointment is ongoing, according to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
In a statement made outside Parliament, Rabuka clarified that Barbara Malimali does not need to step down unless she is formally charged with any wrongdoing. This announcement comes in response to calls from former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, who suggested that Malimali should “step aside” to ensure the integrity and transparency of the inquiry process.
“There is no two ways about it,” Chaudhry emphasized, highlighting the need for accountability in the process. Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner on September 4 has raised concerns, especially since she was under investigation by the agency she now leads.
Rabuka indicated that while Malimali does not have to resign now, she should consider stepping down voluntarily if the inquiry determines that her involvement may hinder the investigation. “As a senior lawyer, she should know what’s in the best interest of everyone,” he stated.
The Prime Minister affirmed that the inquiry is the most suitable and impartial method to handle the allegations. His comments followed accusations from Francis Puleiwai, the former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, alleging that there has been interference in FICAC investigations by current ministers. Puleiwai also noted that the Judicial Services Commission (JDC), which recommends candidates, did not consult her about Malimali’s ongoing investigation before making its recommendation.
Rabuka stressed the urgency of the inquiry, stating, “It will have to be urgent, and it will have to cover all those areas and terms of reference.” Chaudhry also highlighted the importance of a timely investigation, insisting that if the inquiry reveals any compromise in the process that led to a predetermined conclusion, it “must be trashed.”
He reiterated that independent bodies must operate transparently to preserve public confidence, insisting, “There should be no exceptions to this rule of good governance.”
In a related matter concerning allegations of sexual harassment against former Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Office, Pita Wise, Rabuka stated that any further actions would depend on the complainant’s choices. Wise resigned last week for personal reasons.