Pressure is mounting on the Government, particularly Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, to swiftly establish an independent Board of Inquiry regarding the contentious appointment of Barbara Malimali as the new Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).
Political analysts emphasize that, despite the potential high costs and lengthy duration of the inquiry, it is a necessary step. Opposition MP Premila Kumar, the only female member of her party, highlighted that the citizens of Fiji are seeking clarity and are closely monitoring the situation. She pointed out that this is not the first time the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) has made a problematic appointment, recalling last year’s selection of John Rabuku as acting Director of Public Prosecutions, who was later deemed ineligible by the Supreme Court.
Kumar questioned the urgency behind Malimali’s appointment, especially given that she is currently under investigation. “It is common sense that anyone under scrutiny should not be promoted to such a significant role,” Kumar asserted.
While PM Rabuka has promised to outline his next steps through the Board of Inquiry, former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry expressed concern over the Coalition Government’s previous lack of urgency regarding the matter. G9 crossbencher Mosese Bulitavu praised Rabuka’s decision to pursue a Board of Inquiry, noting that the ongoing debate surrounding FICAC is occurring under the Prime Minister’s leadership, with some ministers, including the Attorney-General, supporting Malimali’s appointment publicly.
Bulitavu remarked that although FICAC functions independently and is not under the Prime Minister’s control, negative perceptions often associate the Prime Minister with its actions. He believes that an inquiry would help resolve the ongoing issues related to this incident.
Barbara Malimali was approached for a comment but declined, stating she had no information to provide at that moment. Attempts to reach Attorney-General Graham Leung and the Judicial Services Commission for their input also went unanswered.