The head of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) will not be required to resign during the ongoing Commission of Inquiry into her appointment, according to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. In a statement outside Parliament, Rabuka affirmed that Barbara Malimali is only obligated to step down if she faces formal charges. This declaration comes in response to former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry’s suggestion that Malimali should “step aside” to uphold the inquiry’s transparency and integrity.
Chaudhry emphasized the necessity of accountability in the matter. Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner on September 4 has sparked controversy due to her ongoing investigation by the agency she leads. Rabuka suggested that Malimali should consider resigning voluntarily if her involvement is perceived as obstructing the investigation, reminding that as a senior lawyer, she should prioritize the collective interest.
Rabuka characterized the inquiry as a fair and urgent process to examine the allegations. His comments followed claims made by former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, Francis Puleiwai, who alleged that current ministers interfered in FICAC investigations. Puleiwai also mentioned that the Judicial Services Commission (JDC), which recommends candidates, did not reach out to her regarding Malimali’s active investigation before issuing its recommendation.
Rabuka highlighted the urgency of the inquiry, stressing that it should comprehensively address all relevant areas. Chaudhry supported this urgency, warning that if the inquiry uncovers any compromises aimed at producing a predetermined result, the process should be discarded. He reiterated the importance of independent institutions maintaining transparency to foster public trust, stating that there should be no exceptions to good governance principles.
In relation to a separate sexual harassment complaint involving former Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Office, Pita Wise, Rabuka noted that any further action would rely on the complainant’s decision. Wise resigned last week, citing personal reasons.