The ongoing saga concerning Barbara-gate has taken another turn. Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu is urging that key 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 standards as suspended Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde.
Pryde’s suspension in April, stemming from allegations of an inappropriate meeting with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum at the Japanese Ambassador’s residence, has fueled a heated discussion about transparency and fairness in Fiji’s governance. Reports indicated that Pryde was seen conversing with Sayed-Khaiyum during this event.
Pryde’s office had been investigating Sayed-Khaiyum at the time of the meeting. As Seruiratu demands accountability and justice, the focus remains on high-ranking officials within the justice system.
Last Friday, a photograph of Minister Turaga, Commissioner Malimali, and Deputy Director Rabuku was shared on the Ministry of Justice’s Facebook page. The three were captured together during a welcoming ceremony for a Japanese delegation at the Grand Pacific Hotel. However, by the time this article was prepared for publication, the photo had been removed from the Ministry’s page.
In further context, Minister Turaga is currently under investigation by FICAC. Deputy Director Rabuku had previously reviewed Malimali’s FICAC case, consulting with Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva. On September 24, 2024, Rabuku’s office had referred Malimali’s case to the Director of the Criminal Department of Investigation, citing that the case was “incomplete” and required further police inquiry.
Christopher Pryde was suspended from his position last April for alleged “misbehavior.” President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere acted on the recommendation of the Judicial Services Commission to suspend him in accordance with the Constitution.
In light of recent events, Seruiratu criticized the public appearance of the three officials. He stated that if the same standards apply, relevant authorities should assess whether suspensions or a tribunal are necessary for Malimali, Rabuku, and Turaga to preserve the justice system’s integrity. He emphasized the importance of public perception of impartiality, particularly concerning ongoing investigations involving high-ranking officials.
Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry also expressed similar concerns, highlighting that visuals of high-ranking officials having serious conversations at functions have circulated widely on social media. He raised questions about whether the Acting Chief Justice and DPP would take action in light of these interactions.
The Attorney-General’s Office responded to queries by explaining that a Japanese delegation, led by Takeshi Seto, is currently in Fiji for a weeklong mission focusing on law and justice, without directly addressing specific concerns raised regarding the officials’ conduct.