Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced plans to submit a letter to the President seeking approval for a Commission of Inquiry (COI) regarding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).
Rabuka previously stated that determining the scoping and specific mandate of the COI falls under his authority. Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner on September 4 has sparked controversy, especially since she is currently under investigation by the very agency she leads.
“We are just waiting for the President to respond, and I will ensure he signs the approval,” Rabuka remarked. “I’ve drafted my letter, which will be delivered to him upon his return.”
Key issues on the agenda for the COI include examining the circumstances surrounding Malimali’s appointment, allegations of ministerial interference, and accusations of scapegoating related to ministerial charges.