Former Prime Minister and leader of the Fiji Labour Party, Mahendra Chaudhry, has alleged that certain Ministers who are currently under investigation by FICAC for submitting false declarations to the Registrar of Political Parties and engaging in corrupt activities are attempting to influence the selection of a new FICAC Commissioner.
Chaudhry argues that these Ministers, in a bid to evade prosecution, are seeking to replace Acting Assistant Commissioner Francis Puleiwai with a candidate of their preference for the position of substantive Commissioner.
He also noted previous instances of interference, specifically citing Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Barbara Malimali, allegedly hindering the Registrar’s decision to refer the Ministers to FICAC.
Chaudhry stated, “A report regarding Malimali’s conduct was submitted to FICAC, which has confirmed receipt, and we believe the issue is currently under investigation.” He expressed concerns about the pressure on FICAC under Puleiwai in handling the cases against the Ministers and mentioned that the Fiji Labour Party has heard reports that Malimali might be vying for the position of FICAC Commissioner, raising questions about her suitability for the role.