The Fiji Labour Party (FLP) has criticized Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for making comments regarding the legitimacy of Barbara Malimali’s appointment as the Commissioner of FICAC before an inquiry has taken place. In an official statement, the FLP declared that Malimali’s appointment was unlawful due to her being under investigation by FICAC at the time, suggesting that the Judicial Services Commission acted incorrectly in appointing her without clearance.
FLP Leader Mahendra Chaudhry indicated that it is misleading to state that her appointment adhered to legal standards. He expressed concerns about the circumstances surrounding Malimali’s appointment and questioned the motivations behind it, especially in light of the resignation of Deputy Commissioner Francis Puleiwai.
Chaudhry suggested that the timing of Malimali’s appointment seemed designed to interfere with the operations of an independent authority and potentially obstruct the expected arrest of Professor Biman Prasad, who faces multiple charges related to submitting false financial information.
He also voiced apprehension regarding the upcoming discussion in Cabinet about the inquiry’s terms of reference and appointments, noting a potential conflict of interest, as some ministers are under investigation by FICAC due to complaints from the Registrar of Political Parties. Chaudhry raised concerns about the appropriateness of these ministers influencing the inquiry’s terms and participant selections.
The FLP also mentioned that the Prime Minister has guaranteed Puleiwai’s return to Fiji to take part in the inquiry, but Chaudhry pointed out that the PM’s assurance must have the support of his ministers and other relevant government branches.