The Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga, has urged the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) to conduct an investigation into the unauthorized release of a confidential letter regarding proposed charges against Finance Minister Biman Prasad. The letter, dated September 5 and written by former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, Francis Puleiwai, was widely shared on social media.
The leaked document revealed that FICAC had concluded its investigations and was recommending charges against Mr. Prasad for failing to declare all assets, income, and liabilities before the last General Election. This leak came just after Barbara Malimali’s controversial appointment as FICAC Commissioner on September 4, prompting the case to be shelved.
In comments made to Fiji Sun from Australia, Ms. Puleiwai criticized Mr. Turaga’s inquiry into the letter’s source. She explained that the original letter, which was on white paper, was sent to the Minister for Justice, along with copies distributed to the Attorney-General, the President, and the Judicial Service Commission (JSC).
The appointment of Ms. Malimali as FICAC Commissioner has generated significant controversy, particularly since she was under investigation by FICAC at the time of her designation. In light of public and media pressure, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced a Commission of Inquiry (COI) to scrutinize the circumstances surrounding her appointment. A Cabinet discussion is scheduled to address the COI’s scope and mandate. However, concerns have emerged regarding the inquiry’s independence, especially since some Cabinet members are under investigation by FICAC.
Prime Minister Rabuka stated that the inquiry would investigate allegations of ministerial interference, the process behind Ms. Malimali’s appointment, and threats made against Ms. Puleiwai.
Former Prime Minister and Fiji Labour Party leader, Mahendra Chaudhry, expressed worries about potential conflicts of interest linked to having the Cabinet outline the COI’s terms of reference. He challenged Mr. Rabuka’s claim that the appointment process was lawful and involved the JSC, warning that such statements risk misleading the public and may preempt the findings of the inquiry. Chaudhry emphasized that questions persist regarding Ms. Malimali’s appointment, especially given her active investigation status, which complicates the legitimacy of the JSC’s decision. He also highlighted that while the Prime Minister has assured Ms. Puleiwai of her safety if she returns to Fiji for the inquiry, broader governmental support is necessary to ensure her protection.