The head of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), Barbara Malimali, will not be required to step down while an inquiry into her appointment is ongoing, according to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. In a recent interview outside Parliament, Prime Minister Rabuka clarified that Malimali need not resign unless formal charges are brought against her.
These statements come in response to calls from former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, who insists that Malimali should “step aside” to maintain the inquiry’s transparency and integrity. Chaudhry emphasized the significance of accountability in the matter.
Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner on September 4 has sparked controversy due to her being investigated by the very agency she now leads. Rabuka remarked that Malimali ought to consider stepping down voluntarily if the inquiry determines that her involvement hinders the investigation. He noted that as a senior lawyer, she should understand what is best for all parties involved.
The Prime Minister also asserted that the inquiry is the most suitable and impartial way to handle the allegations at hand. His comments follow claims made by former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, Francis Puleiwai, who alleged that current ministers interfered with FICAC investigations. Puleiwai further mentioned that the Judicial Services Commission (JDC), which recommends candidates, did not consult her regarding Malimali’s ongoing investigation prior to their recommendation.
Rabuka 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 sentiment and asserted that if the inquiry reveals a compromised process aimed at a preordained outcome, “it must be trashed.” He stressed that independent offices must operate transparently to uphold public confidence, highlighting the need for strict adherence to good governance principles.
In a related matter, concerning an alleged sexual harassment complaint against former Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Office, Pita Wise, Rabuka mentioned that further actions would be contingent on the decision of the complainant. Wise resigned last week, citing personal reasons.