Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has suggested the possibility of establishing an independent board of inquiry to examine the ongoing controversy related to the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). However, the decision to proceed will hinge on advice from his advisors, both within and outside the cabinet.
Malimali’s appointment has sparked significant criticism, particularly since she is currently under investigation by FICAC in her capacity as chairperson of the Electoral Commission. Legal and political analysts have also raised concerns regarding the timing of her appointment, which coincided with impending charges against Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad by the corruption watchdog.
Former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, Francis Pulewai, revealed that a formal notification regarding charges against Mr. Prasad had been sent to the Prime Minister and the Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga, just a day before Malimali’s appointment. Prasad is alleged to have failed to declare his assets, income, and liabilities prior to the last election, but these charges have been suspended since Malimali took on her new role.
Previously, Rabuka stated that any cabinet minister facing charges would be moved to the backbench, similar to the situation with former Fisheries Minister Kalaveti Ravu. Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has urged Rabuka to intervene to uphold the integrity and independence of the commission.
As the chair of the Constitutional Offices Commission, Rabuka is still awaiting Malimali’s resignation from the Electoral Commission, which has not been received ten days after her FICAC appointment. When questioned about the possibility of initiating an independent inquiry or tribunal regarding the matter, Rabuka responded that if the situation warrants it, he will proceed and may seek consultations beyond the cabinet.
In addition, there is a growing petition circulating calling for Malimali’s removal, as concerns surrounding her appointment continue to escalate.