The Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the controversial appointment of Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner Barbara Malimali may extend its sessions into late next month. The hearings began on Monday and are currently set to accommodate testimony from 35 witnesses over a two-week period. However, Justice David Ashton-Lewis, the sole commissioner, indicated that an extension to the end of February might be necessary due to the complexity of the inquiries.
Justice Ashton-Lewis remarked on the thorough nature of the examination, highlighting that the detailed inquiries require more time than initially planned. “We probably going to have to request the President to extend the date to the end of February,” he stated, noting the importance of allowing comprehensive questioning to ensure accountability. The first day’s hearings saw limited witness testimony, with only Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Supervisor of Election Ana Mataiciwa testifying.
Moreover, the commissioner emphasized the need for detailed responses, stating that a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ will not suffice in this inquiry, as a more extensive explanation helps to ascertain the credibility of the testimonies presented. Out of the 35 witnesses planned for the hearings, 28 have yet to provide their evidence, indicating that more developments are expected in the coming weeks.
This inquiry represents a significant step toward public accountability and transparency in governance, reflecting a commitment to uphold integrity within Fiji’s institutions. The thorough examination process underscores the importance of judicial oversight in navigating potential conflicts of interest and ensuring proper conduct among public officials.
As the COI continues its work, there is hope that the findings will contribute positively to restoring public trust in the country’s institutions and foster a culture of accountability within governance.
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