A new development has emerged in the ongoing Barbara-gate controversy. Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu is demanding that significant government figures, including Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga, Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption Commissioner Barbara Malimali, and Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku, be held to the same accountability standards as suspended Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde.
Pryde was suspended last April amid allegations related to a controversial meeting with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum at the residence of the Japanese Ambassador. Reports suggested that Pryde was seen conversing with Sayed-Khaiyum, raising issues about transparency in Fiji’s leadership as his office was actively investigating Sayed-Khaiyum at the time.
Seruiratu’s call for justice and accountability shines a light on the actions and roles of officials within the highest echelons of the justice system. Recently, a photo featuring Turaga, Malimali, and Rabuku was posted on the Ministry of Justice’s Facebook page, capturing their appearance together at an event for a visiting Japanese delegation at the Grand Pacific Hotel. However, the photo was removed from the page soon after.
Background information reveals that Turaga currently faces an active investigation by FICAC. Additionally, Rabuku has reviewed Malimali’s case in coordination with Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva and referred it for further police investigation due to its incomplete nature.
Christopher Pryde, the suspended DPP, was dismissed for alleged misconduct following recommendations from the Judicial Services Commission (JSC). His suspension was enacted under constitutional guidelines.
Seruiratu has criticized the recent public interaction between Turaga, Rabuku, and Malimali, suggesting that if equal standards are to be upheld, the authorities should consider appropriate measures to safeguard the integrity of the justice system. He emphasized the importance of public perception of impartiality, especially when high-profile officials are involved in ongoing investigations. Seruiratu noted that the public’s trust in institutions depends on addressing potential bias or misconduct.
Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has echoed similar concerns, questioning whether the Acting Chief Justice and DPP will address the perceived impropriety of the officials’ interactions. He highlighted the DPP’s constitutional authority to impose disciplinary action as necessary and urged action to restore confidence in the office.
The Prime Minister and the JSC Chair were approached for comments on the matter but did not respond by the time of publication. Meanwhile, the Attorney-General’s Office provided context on a high-level delegation from Japan visiting Fiji for a weeklong mission focused on law and justice, without addressing specific inquiries related to the ongoing controversy.