The Commission of Inquiry (COI) is currently in the process of drafting a letter to Acting Deputy Commissioner Lisiate Fotofili from the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). This action follows the agreement of FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali to take leave upon a request from the Judicial Services Commission.
Senior Barrister Janet Mason has indicated that the letter aims to guarantee access to essential documents for FICAC witnesses who are set to be recalled next week for reexamination. Mason emphasized, “I’m writing to see that the witnesses that we want can have access to the documents that we need and that this can be provided to the Commission.”
While the COI did not convene today, Mason confirmed that proceedings will resume tomorrow, with an estimate of three days required to finish the cross-examination of witnesses. Mason also mentioned the Commission’s intentions to secure assurances from Fotofili that the recalled witnesses would not face any repercussions.
In addition to the FICAC witnesses, notable figures such as the Chief Justice and the Chief Registrar are also expected to be recalled for testimony. This inquiry is part of a broader effort in Fiji to uphold accountability and transparency within governmental processes, particularly regarding the appointment and oversight of FICAC positions.
The ongoing proceedings reflect a commitment to ensuring that the inquiry thoroughly examines potential influences and irregularities related to the appointment of public officials. As the inquiry progresses, there is hope that it will foster greater public trust in Fiji’s institutions, emphasizing the importance of integrity and due diligence in governance.
This inquiry, set against the backdrop of previous sessions which included testimonies from high-profile figures like Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, reinforces the vital role that rigorous investigation plays in safeguarding democratic principles and accountability within national governance.
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