The Fiji Labour Party has expressed strong opposition to Barbara Malimali assuming her position as head of FICAC while she is currently under investigation. In a statement, party leader and former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry emphasized that Malimali should resign from her role as FICAC Commissioner until the allegations of abuse of office against her are thoroughly addressed by independent and impartial authorities. Chaudhry highlighted that she is currently under arrest and being questioned.
Additionally, Chaudhry raised concerns regarding the close ties between Malimali and Attorney General Graham Leung, pointing out that in April 2024, she recommended Leung for the position of Supervisor of Elections to the Electoral Commission while serving as its Chairperson. He further noted that Malimali’s position becomes increasingly questionable given that she represented Jason Zong in court, who has been charged with bribery by FICAC.