The Fiji Labour Party (FLP) has criticized Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for publicly commenting on the legitimacy of Barbara Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner prior to an investigation. In a recent statement, the FLP stated that Malimali’s appointment was unlawful as she was under investigation by FICAC at that time, claiming the Judicial Services Commission made an error in appointing her without prior clearance.
FLP Leader Mahendra Chaudhry described the assertion that her appointment followed legal protocols as misleading. He expressed concerns regarding the circumstances of Malimali’s appointment and questioned the motives behind it, along with the resignation of Francis Puleiwai as Deputy Commissioner.
Chaudhry emphasized that the timing suggested a possible interference in the operations of an independent authority and an effort to obstruct the imminent arrest of Professor Biman Prasad on various charges related to incorrect financial disclosures to the Registrar of Political Parties under the Political Parties Act.
The former Prime Minister also raised concerns about the Prime Minister’s announcement that the terms of reference for the upcoming inquiry would be discussed in Cabinet next Tuesday. He pointed out that several Ministers are currently under investigation by FICAC due to complaints from the Registrar of Political Parties, which creates a significant conflict of interest.
“Should these ministers be allowed to define the terms of the inquiry or influence who will be appointed to it?” Chaudhry questioned.
Additionally, the FLP noted that the Prime Minister had assured Puleiwai’s return to Fiji to participate in the inquiry. While her involvement is seen as vital for the inquiry’s success, Chaudhry highlighted that such assurances from the PM hold little weight without support from his ministers and other relevant governmental bodies.