The Commission of Inquiry (COI) investigating the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner is intensifying its efforts by seeking an urgent meeting with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. This development comes after Malimali expressed concerns over former FICAC employee Kuliniasi Saumi’s access to sensitive documents, raising alarms about possible integrity issues within the commission.
Despite the urgency, Prime Minister Rabuka has not responded to two formal requests for a meeting, including an email from Senior Barrister Janet Mason. The COI’s investigation delves into whether any irregularities impacted Malimali’s controversial appointment, now entering its seventh week with the conclusion of witness testimonies imminent.
On the same day, Chief Justice Salesi Temo and various FICAC witnesses provided their testimonies, presenting further complexity to the inquiry. The final witness, Chief Registrar Tomasi Bainivalu, is currently overseas, which extends the COI’s timeline into next week when he is expected to testify.
Public interest is building over the integrity and transparency surrounding Malimali’s appointment, especially considering the inquiry’s aim to ensure that no improper influences marred the process. The unresolved inquiries about the legitimacy of FICAC’s leadership under Malimali illustrate the significant scrutiny surrounding this critical oversight body.
This inquiry represents a significant opportunity for Fiji to reinforce its commitment to accountability and integrity in governance. As the investigation progresses, there is hope that it will not only shed light on potential issues but also lead to necessary reforms that enhance the ethical standards within public service, ultimately restoring public trust in governmental institutions. The findings from this inquiry may pave the way for a more transparent and accountable governance framework in Fiji, fostering a positive outlook on the nation’s political landscape.
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