The Vice Chancellor and Dean of the University of Fiji School of Law, Professor Shaista Shameem, has raised serious concerns about the implications of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) concerning the appointment of Barbara Malimali to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). In her comments, she criticized the way in which the inquiry is being manipulated through innuendo to support the removal of the 2013 Constitution, pointing to recent reports published by the Fiji Sun.
Professor Shameem highlighted that the COI’s findings are currently being misconceived, as a judicial review application is pending, and critics are expressing frustration that only a partial report, with names redacted, will be made public. “Most people want those names to be released as their constitutional right to information,” she asserted, emphasizing that without complete disclosure, the COI’s findings may not carry significant weight.
Concerns about judicial independence have been echoed by other commentators, including leaders from the Fiji Law Society. They have stressed the necessity for independent legal advice and adherence to constitutional mandates in handling the COI report, particularly regarding the implications for those mentioned within it, including Malimali and Attorney-General Graham Leung. There are worries that any mismanagement could undermine the integrity of the judiciary and contribute to instability in Fiji’s governance.
In this climate of scrutiny, Professor Shameem called for transparency and full disclosure of the inquiry report, arguing that it is essential for individuals mentioned to have an opportunity to defend themselves. “The full COI Report should present an opportunity for everyone mentioned in it to clear the air,” she stated, advocating for accountability and transparency from those in power.
As discussions around governance and legal integrity continue, the hope is that the ongoing inquiries into these allegations can serve as a catalyst for reform, promoting the principles of good governance, ethical standards, and public trust in Fiji’s institutions. The urgency for clarity resonates widely within both the public and political arenas, as many seek significant improvements in how government operates in Fiji, especially during this challenging period.
This situation offers a chance for Fiji to reevaluate its approach to governance, reinforcing the importance of transparency and the rule of law as essential pillars for a stable and just society. If handled thoughtfully, the outcomes of this inquiry may not only address current issues but also lay the groundwork for enhanced trust and integrity within Fiji’s political landscape.
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