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 comments made outside Parliament, Mr. Rabuka stated that Barbara Malimali should remain in her position unless formal charges are brought against her.
His remarks follow calls from former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, who suggested that Ms. Malimali should “step aside” to uphold the transparency and integrity of the inquiry. Mr. Chaudhry emphasized the necessity of accountability in this situation.
Ms. Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner on September 4 has drawn controversy, as she was under investigation by the very agency she now leads. Despite this, Mr. Rabuka indicated that Ms. Malimali might need to consider stepping down voluntarily if it is determined that her involvement obstructs the investigation.
Mr. Rabuka described the inquiry as an essential and unbiased method for addressing the allegations. His comments followed claims made by former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, Francis Puleiwai, who alleged that current ministers have interfered in FICAC investigations.
Ms. Puleiwai also noted that the Judicial Services Commission (JDC), which recommends candidates, failed to consult her regarding Ms. Malimali’s ongoing investigation prior to their recommendation. The Prime Minister insisted that the inquiry must be conducted urgently and comprehensively.
Mr. Chaudhry echoed this urgency, declaring that if the inquiry reveals that the process was manipulated to achieve a predetermined outcome, “it must be trashed.” He asserted the importance of independent offices operating transparently to foster public confidence, emphasizing that there should be no exceptions to the principles of good governance.
In relation to a separate issue involving an alleged sexual harassment complaint against former Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Office, Pita Wise, Mr. Rabuka indicated that the next steps would depend on the complainant’s wishes. Mr. Wise resigned the previous week, citing personal reasons.