The Minister for Justice has criticized the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) investigations aimed at senior Cabinet Ministers, labeling them as “acts of malice.” Siromi Turaga hinted at an impending inquiry to uncover who leaked a FICAC letter last Wednesday that disclosed plans to charge Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad.
In spite of his strong objections, Turaga acknowledged that he also received a letter regarding his own case under FICAC investigation. Coincidentally, Acting Deputy FICAC Francis Puleiwai resigned last Thursday, citing a need to uphold “the rule of law” and maintain her personal integrity.
Turaga stated, “The release was actually done with malice. In the coming weeks, it will become clear that someone will be held accountable.” He noted that the letter pertaining to the investigation was leaked prior to reaching his office, suggesting “collaboration and malice” behind the incident.
He also criticized the timing of the leak, which occurred just before the arrival of the new FICAC Commissioner, Barbara Malimali. Turaga claimed the complaint against him should have been reviewed by the Supervisor of Elections, which he argued did not happen. “We have been defamed over allegations that remain unclear,” he remarked.
Furthermore, Turaga defended the appointment of Malimali as the new FICAC Commissioner despite ongoing criticism. He asserted that the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) adhered to due process in her selection. “Perhaps this will provide some perspective on why the JSC felt it necessary to proceed with the appointment,” he said.
JSC chairperson and Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo, alongside Attorney-General Graham Leung, also expressed support for Malimali’s appointment.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka reported he was unaware of the full scope of FICAC’s investigations. “The only two ministers who approached me were Ravu, who is now suspended, and Biman, who was ultimately not charged,” Rabuka stated. “I have no involvement with the work, appointment, or decisions related to FICAC.”