A new development has emerged in the ongoing controversy known as “Barbara-gate.” 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, should be held accountable similarly to the 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, which sparked intense discussions about transparency and fairness in Fijian governance. Allegations included that he was seen conversing with Sayed-Khaiyum, which was under investigation by Pryde’s office concerning the former Attorney-General.
As Seruiratu calls for justice and accountability, attention focuses on the upper echelons of Fiji’s justice system. Recently, a photograph featuring Turaga, Malimali, and Rabuku appeared on the Ministry of Justice’s Facebook page, showing them together at a welcoming ceremony for a Japanese delegation at the Grand Pacific Hotel. However, that photo was removed shortly after.
In terms of ongoing investigations, Turaga has an active case with FICAC, while Rabuku assessed Malimali’s case in coordination with Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva. Rabuku asserted that Malimali’s case was “incomplete,” necessitating further police investigation.
Christopher Pryde, who was suspended over alleged misbehavior, was dismissed following the advice of the Judicial Services Commission. His suspension adhered to constitutional provisions concerning misconduct.
Seruiratu criticized the recent interactions among the trio, stating that for fairness, the authorities should consider appropriate measures for Malimali, Rabuku, and Turaga to preserve the integrity of the justice system. He emphasized that public perception of impartiality is critical during investigations involving high-ranking officials, arguing that such public appearances could cast doubt on the investigation’s credibility.
Similarly, former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry raised concerns about the implications of the public interactions, questioning whether the Chair of the Judicial Services Commission and DPP Tikoisuva would take action. He pointed out that Tikoisuva has the constitutional authority to enact disciplinary measures against any officer in her office.
As inquiries were made to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo regarding these issues, no responses were reported by the time of publication. Meanwhile, a spokesperson from the Attorney-General’s Office provided context for the Japanese delegation’s visit, which aims to enhance the collaborative relationship between the two countries in the law and justice sectors, without addressing the specific questions raised.