Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has suggested the possibility of establishing an independent board of inquiry to look into the controversy regarding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). However, this decision will rely on the guidance and consultation he receives from his advisors, both from within and outside the cabinet.
Malimali’s appointment has faced significant criticism, particularly as she was under investigation by FICAC in her capacity as chairperson of the Electoral Commission at the time. The timing of her appointment has also raised eyebrows, coinciding with the moment when Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad was expected to be charged by the corruption watchdog.
Francis Pulewai, the former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, revealed that a formal notification to charge Prasad had already been sent to both the Prime Minister and the Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga, just one day prior to Malimali’s appointment. Prasad was to be charged with not properly declaring all his assets, income, and liabilities before the last election. Since Malimali’s appointment, these charges have been suspended.
Earlier statements from Rabuka indicated that any cabinet minister facing charges would be moved to the backbench, similar to the situation with former Minister for Fisheries, Kalaveti Ravu. Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry urged Rabuka to intervene to safeguard the integrity and independence of the FICAC.
As the chair of the Constitutional Offices Commission, Rabuka is still waiting for Malimali’s resignation letter from the Electoral Commission, which has not yet been submitted ten days following her appointment to FICAC. When queried about the initiation of an independent inquiry or tribunal to address allegations of interference with FICAC’s independence, Rabuka mentioned, “If it is allowed for, then we will go ahead.” He emphasized the need for external advice if necessary.
Additionally, there is a growing petition calling for Malimali’s removal, intensifying the scrutiny surrounding her appointment.