Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced that he has completed reading the Commission of Inquiry (COI) report regarding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). Although he is awaiting a meeting with President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu to discuss the report, he clarified that this meeting will focus on their impressions and recommendations rather than simply briefing each other.
Rabuka indicated that he plans to consult with Attorney-General Graham Leung, hopefully by Thursday, before making any decisions about public disclosure of the report. The issue surrounding the release of this 400-page report has garnered intense public scrutiny, with many calling for transparency since it was delivered to the Prime Minister and President on May 1.
Similar articles highlight the ongoing public pressure and concerns regarding potential political interference in the appointment process. Rabuka has previously emphasized that he has “no reason to hide” anything within the report and has expressed a commitment to transparency and accountability in governance. Janet Mason, Counsel assisting the COI, has also urged the public for patience, noting that the report’s nature requires careful consideration before any information is made public.
The inquiry not only seeks to address allegations surrounding Malimali’s appointment but also reflects a broader commitment to enhancing governance in Fiji. With the anticipation building around the report’s findings, there is a hopeful sentiment that the inquiry will lead to meaningful reforms aimed at bolstering trust in government institutions and fostering a political landscape characterized by integrity and accountability.
Rabuka’s commitment to transparency and the ongoing scrutiny of high-level appointments are essential steps towards restoring public confidence in Fiji’s governance framework. As the inquiry unfolds, it symbolizes a potential turning point for improved ethical standards in public service.
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