The Fiji Labour Party (FLP) has criticized Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for publicly commenting on the validity of Barbara Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner before an inquiry takes place.
In a statement, the FLP contended that Malimali’s appointment was unlawful as she was under investigation by FICAC at that time. They argued that the Judicial Services Commission made an error in appointing her without prior clearance from FICAC.
FLP Leader Mahendra Chaudhry called it misleading to assert that her appointment complied with the law. He pointed out several issues related to the process of her appointment and questioned the motives behind it, particularly in light of Francis Puleiwai’s resignation as Deputy Commissioner.
Chaudhry suggested that the timing of Malimali’s appointment appeared to be an effort to obstruct the work of an independent authority, potentially hindering the expected arrest of Professor Biman Prasad, who faces multiple charges regarding false financial disclosures.
Furthermore, Chaudhry expressed concerns about the Prime Minister’s indication that details regarding the inquiry’s terms of reference and appointments would be discussed in an upcoming Cabinet meeting. He emphasized that several Cabinet Ministers had been subjects of FICAC investigations based on complaints from the Registrar of Political Parties, highlighting a significant conflict of interest.
Chaudhry questioned whether these ministers should have the authority to set the investigation’s terms and influence who is appointed to it.
The FLP noted that the Prime Minister has promised Puleiwai’s return to Fiji to contribute to the inquiry. However, Chaudhry stated that the Prime Minister’s assurance cannot stand without the support of his ministers and other relevant government entities involved in the situation.