Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has stated that the Prime Minister’s proposal to establish a board of inquiry into the Barbara Malimali situation is a necessary step, considering the information circulating publicly.
Mr. Seruiratu noted that while the Prime Minister acknowledged receiving Malimali’s resignation letter on September 14, the specific process that either party followed remains unclear. He highlighted the timeline of events, pointing out that Malimali resigned on September 3, was introduced to FICAC staff the next day, and officially took on the role of FICAC Commissioner on September 5.
He questioned whether this sequence of events was standard and consistent with her contract as chair of the Electoral Commission, suggesting that an inquiry could help clarify these matters.
Simultaneously, Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry has claimed that both the Prime Minister and President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere were aware of Ms. Malimali’s FICAC investigation prior to her appointment as Commissioner. He asserted that they had received a letter from FICAC on August 30 that notified them of the investigation into Malimali for alleged abuse of office.
Chaudhry expressed concern that Malimali’s appointment might have been politically motivated to prevent the prosecution of Ministers. He cautioned that any obstruction of the legal process in these cases could further erode public confidence in law enforcement agencies and the Rabuka administration.
He urged the Prime Minister to prioritize transparency and the truth above all else, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.