Pieces of a 682-page document associated with the Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the appointment of Fiji’s Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner Barbara Malimali have been circulating widely on social media, raising questions about authenticity and implications. Janet Mason, the counsel assisting the inquiry, stated that the document appears to be the final version submitted to President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, expressing her disappointment over its leak.
The public reaction has been mixed; while some view the report as highlighting systemic weaknesses in Fiji’s legal frameworks, others question the credibility of Justice David Ashton-Lewis, the Supreme Court judge leading the inquiry. Concerns include discrepancies, such as two versions of Ashton-Lewis’s “letter of transmittal” regarding his report to the President.
This leak, following the dissemination of related testimonies from the inquiry’s closed sessions, has intensified scrutiny on several high-ranking officials implicated in irregularities connected to Malimali’s appointment. The leaked documents recommend investigations into possible offenses such as fraud, perjury, and obstruction of justice, reflecting significant allegations of corruption and political interference during Malimali’s selection, which has been described as “legally questionable” and politically motivated.
The inquiry has led to the suspension and subsequent dismissal of Malimali, as well as the departure of former attorney-general Graham Leung, both of whom have faced challenges to their dismissals. With calls for transparency gaining momentum from political figures and the public alike, the Prime Minister has yet to set a firm timeline for the report’s official release—a crucial step for restoring public trust and accountability in Fiji’s governance.
Looking ahead, there is hope among citizens and advocates for reforms that could follow this inquiry, potentially enhancing ethical standards in the nation’s political landscape. As pressure mounts for the release of the COI findings, many believe that transparency will ultimately be beneficial for all involved, paving the way for a renewed commitment to integrity within Fiji’s institutions.
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