The Commission of Inquiry (COI) has reached out to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu regarding issues stemming from the actions of Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner Barbara Malimali. Senior Barrister Janet Mason raised concerns over Malimali’s questioning of former Manager of Investigations Kuliniasi Saumi’s access to critical documents related to the ongoing inquiry.
Mason expressed her displeasure with Malimali’s conduct, indicating that the COI has formally communicated their grievances to Rabuka and Lalabalavu, alongside considerations for potential legal actions, although the details remain undisclosed. She noted that Saumi, a key witness who recently returned to provide testimony, brought forth significant evidence, emphasizing the weight of his input in this inquiry.
The situation escalated following Saumi’s termination, which has intensified the COI’s calls for Malimali’s suspension. They assert that her ongoing involvement could compromise the inquiry’s integrity and dissuade other witnesses from coming forward. Mason’s observations about Malimali’s leave status suggest that a suspension could have precluded her interference with witness document access matters, raising further questions about oversight in the process.
This unfolding scenario highlights the challenges within Fiji’s governance and accountability framework, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced oversight and transparency. However, there is a hopeful perspective that this inquiry could lead to the establishment of stronger ethical standards within public institutions. It presents a pivotal opportunity to improve protections for whistleblowers, thereby fostering trust in the systems designed to combat corruption.
As the inquiry progresses, it may serve as a catalyst for meaningful reforms in Fiji’s public service governance, ultimately enhancing the public’s confidence in these vital institutions.
Leave a comment