Fiji’s first female FICAC Commissioner, Barbara Malimali, has publicly addressed the controversy surrounding her recent appointment by President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, which was made following the recommendation of the Judicial Services Commission.
Malimali firmly stated, “I am not a political appointee,” and expressed her offense at claims to the contrary. She emphasized that the Judicial Services Commission deemed her the most qualified candidate for the position.
Rejecting the notion that her appointment was influenced by political motives, she remarked, “It is very irresponsible for people to question the decision of the Acting Chief Justice, Salesi Temo, who is highly respected in the judiciary.”
Malimali acknowledged that she anticipated criticism from political figures, admitting that negative feedback is part of her new role. “If you can’t take the critics, then don’t take the job,” she asserted.
Currently, she is in the process of becoming familiar with the operations of FICAC, an organization she described as large and complex. “I am still getting to know all the different departments and people that I will be working with,” she added.
Her appointment has drawn significant attention, especially following the resignation of former FICAC acting deputy commissioner Francis Puleiwai on the same day her role was announced.