Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has indicated the possibility of establishing an independent board of inquiry to probe the controversy surrounding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). This decision hinges on the advice and consultation he will receive from his advisors, both inside and outside the cabinet.
Malimali’s recent appointment has sparked significant criticism, particularly as she was under investigation by FICAC in her capacity as chairperson of the Electoral Commission at the time of her selection. Additionally, the timing of her appointment has raised eyebrows, coinciding with the period when Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad was set to be charged by FICAC.
Francis Pulewai, the former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, confirmed that a formal notice to charge Mr. Prasad had already been sent to the Prime Minister and Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga just a day before Malimali’s appointment. Prasad was facing allegations of failing to declare all his assets, income, and liabilities prior to the last election. These charges have since been suspended following Malimali’s appointment.
Prime Minister Rabuka previously stated that any cabinet minister facing charges would be moved to the backbench, a stance highlighted by the sidelining of former Minister for Fisheries, Kalaveti Ravu. Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has urged Rabuka to take action to safeguard the integrity and independence of the institution.
As chair of the Constitutional Offices Commission, Rabuka has yet to receive Malimali’s resignation letter from the Electoral Commission, which was expected 10 days following her FICAC appointment. When questioned about the initiation of an independent board of inquiry or tribunal to address concerns regarding FICAC’s independence, Rabuka responded, “If it is allowed for, then we will go ahead,” adding that he would consider seeking advice outside the cabinet if necessary.
Meanwhile, a petition advocating for Malimali’s removal is circulating, further intensifying the debate surrounding her appointment.