Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has suggested the possibility of establishing an independent board of inquiry to look into the controversy surrounding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). However, the decision will hinge on the advice and consultation he receives from his advisors, both within the cabinet and externally.
Malimali’s appointment has faced significant criticism due to her ongoing investigation by FICAC, where she previously served as chairperson of the Electoral Commission. Observers have also raised concerns about the timing of her appointment coinciding with Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad’s impending charges from the corruption watchdog.
Francis Pulewai, former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, confirmed that the formal notification to charge Prasad was sent to the Prime Minister and the Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga just one day before Malimali’s appointment. Prasad is alleged to have failed to declare all his assets, income, and liabilities prior to the last election, but those charges have been placed on hold following Malimali’s appointment.
Rabuka previously stated that any cabinet minister facing charges would be moved to the backbench, similar to former Minister for Fisheries, Kalaveti Ravu. Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has urged Rabuka to intervene to safeguard the integrity and independence of the institution.
As the chair of the Constitutional Offices Commission, Rabuka has not yet received Malimali’s resignation letter from the Electoral Commission, which is notable ten days after her appointment to FICAC. When questioned about the potential for an independent board of inquiry or tribunal to address concerns that her appointment undermines FICAC’s independence, Rabuka indicated that he would pursue that route if deemed appropriate and would seek advice as necessary.
Additionally, a petition advocating for Malimali’s removal has been circulating amid escalating concerns regarding her appointment.