Fiji’s Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga, has urged the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) to probe the unauthorized disclosure of a sensitive letter detailing suggested charges against Finance Minister Biman Prasad. The letter, dated September 5 and sent to Turaga by the former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, Francis Puleiwai, was widely shared online.
The document indicated that FICAC had concluded its investigations and was recommending charges against Prasad for not disclosing all of his assets, income, and liabilities ahead of the last General Election. The leak occurred shortly after Barbara Malimali was controversially appointed FICAC Commissioner on September 4, and the investigation regarding Prasad has since been put on hold.
In comments made to Fiji Sun from Australia, Puleiwai criticized Turaga for questioning the source of the leak. “It’s amusing that Mr. Turaga is asking who leaked the letter,” she remarked. “For those unfamiliar with FICAC’s procedures, the original letter is sent to the individuals we are addressing. The copies we retain are on blue paper.”
Puleiwai clarified, “The leaked letter is the original one printed on white paper, which was sent to the Minister for Justice. Copies were also dispatched to the Attorney-General, the President, and the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). The commissioner does not have access to this letter.”
Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner has generated significant controversy, particularly as she was under FICAC investigation at the time of her selection. In response to public and media backlash, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced the formation of a Commission of Inquiry (COI) to investigate the circumstances surrounding her appointment. The Cabinet is set to review a document tomorrow detailing the COI’s scope and authority.
However, concerns have been raised regarding the inquiry’s impartiality, especially since some Cabinet members are under FICAC scrutiny. Prime Minister Rabuka stated that the inquiry would look into allegations of ministerial interference, the process of Malimali’s appointment, and threats made against Puleiwai.
Former Prime Minister and Fiji Labour Party leader, Mahendra Chaudhry, has expressed apprehension about potential conflicts of interest if the Cabinet defines the COI’s terms. He criticized Rabuka’s claim that the appointment process was legitimate and involved the JSC, suggesting such statements could mislead the public and affect the inquiry’s outcomes. “Questions remain about Ms. Malimali’s appointment, particularly since she was under investigation at the time, which complicates the validity of the JSC’s decision,” Chaudhry stated. He also emphasized that while the Prime Minister has assured Puleiwai’s safety should she return to Fiji for the inquiry, broader governmental support is essential for her protection.