The Fiji Labour Party has criticized Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for publicly commenting on the legitimacy of Barbara Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner before an inquiry takes place. The party stated that Malimali’s appointment was unlawful because she was under investigation by FICAC at the time, and they believe the Judicial Services Commission erred in appointing her without her clearance.
FLP Leader Mahendra Chaudhry indicated that it is misleading to assert that her appointment adhered to legal standards. He highlighted several issues regarding the appointment process and questioned the motives behind it, particularly in light of the immediate resignation of Francis Puleiwai as Deputy Commissioner.
Chaudhry expressed concerns that the timing of Malimali’s appointment appeared to undermine an independent authority and potentially obstruct the anticipated arrest of Professor Biman Prasad on allegations of submitting false financial statements to the Registrar of Political Parties.
Furthermore, Chaudhry voiced apprehension over the Prime Minister’s announcement that the Cabinet would discuss the terms of reference and appointment for the upcoming inquiry. He noted that several Cabinet Ministers are currently under investigation by FICAC due to complaints from the Registrar, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest in allowing these ministers to influence the inquiry’s scope.
The Fiji Labour Party mentioned that the Prime Minister has assured the return of Puleiwai if she comes back to Fiji to contribute to the inquiry. However, Chaudhry emphasized that the Prime Minister’s ability to make such guarantees relies on the consensus of his ministers and the appropriate government branches involved in the situation.