The head of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), Barbara Malimali, will not be required to resign while the Commission of Inquiry into her appointment is ongoing, according to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. In comments made outside Parliament, Rabuka emphasized that Malimali only needs to step down if she faces formal charges.
These remarks come after former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry called for Malimali to “step aside” to maintain transparency in the inquiry process. Chaudhry highlighted the importance of accountability, stating, “There is no two ways about it.”
Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner on September 4 has sparked controversy due to her ongoing investigation by the agency she now leads. Rabuka mentioned that if the inquiry determines that Malimali’s involvement hinders the investigation, she should consider resigning voluntarily.
He asserted that the inquiry is the best approach to address the allegations fairly. Rabuka’s comments follow claims made by former Acting Deputy Commissioner Francis Puleiwai, who alleged current ministers are interfering in FICAC investigations. Puleiwai also noted that the Judicial Services Commission (JDC) did not consult her about Malimali’s investigation prior to making its recommendation.
The Prime Minister described the inquiry as urgent, stating, “It will have to be urgent, and it will have to cover all those areas and terms of reference.” Chaudhry echoed this sense of urgency, insisting that if the inquiry reveals any compromise in the process that led to a predetermined outcome, it should be discarded.
Chaudhry also emphasized the necessity for independent offices to function transparently to uphold public trust, asserting, “There should be no exceptions to this rule of good governance.”
In a separate matter, regarding allegations of sexual harassment against former Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Office, Pita Wise, Rabuka indicated that further actions would hinge on the complainant’s decision. Wise resigned last week, citing personal reasons.