Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced that he will soon submit a letter to the President regarding the Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). Rabuka previously stated that defining the scope and specific mandate of the COI falls under his authority.
Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner on September 4 has sparked controversy, as she is currently under investigation by the very agency she leads. Rabuka remarked, “We are just waiting for the President to get back; I will get him to sign the approval.” He added that he has already drafted the letter for the President’s review.
The COI is expected to address several key issues, including the appointment of Malimali as FICAC Commissioner, allegations of ministerial interference, and claims of scapegoating regarding ministerial charges.