“Fiji’s Governance Under Scrutiny: What Does Leung’s Clarification Mean for Malimali?”

Former Attorney General Graham Leung recently addressed his role in the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the new Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). This follows the release of a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) report that examined the appointment process.

During a press conference, Leung clarified that the law required the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) to only consult him regarding the appointment, which they did. He indicated that his signature on the JSC’s recommendation for Malimali cannot be interpreted as an endorsement of her candidacy.

The CoI report revealed that Leung had contacted FICAC on September 3, 2024, to inquire whether there were any investigations against Malimali after being informed by the JSC of her impending appointment. He learned of a complaint, but could not confirm if an active investigation was occurring. Consequently, Leung recommended pausing Malimali’s appointment to seek further clarification. His initial caution, he noted, stemmed from a commitment to due diligence in light of the unresolved complaint.

However, after receiving a letter from the Electoral Commission expressing support for Malimali and labeling the complaint as unfounded, Leung revised his position and rescinded his earlier advice to delay the appointment. He deemed the communication from the Electoral Commission as decisive in his reassessment.

The controversy surrounding Malimali’s appointment has drawn attention to the governance processes in Fiji and has prompted discussions regarding transparency and integrity in public office. Leung’s statements highlight a desire for accountability, and there is hope that the ongoing scrutiny could lead to reforms that ultimately strengthen the trust in public institutions in Fiji.

As Fiji navigates this complex situation, the developments illustrate the importance of upholding due process and integrity within the country’s governance frameworks. With the support of key electoral bodies, Malimali may be well-positioned to lead FICAC effectively in a challenging environment, promising a brighter future for governance in Fiji.