The recent appointment of Barbara Malimali has raised concerns over the independence of institutions, the lack of due process, and the apparent ignorance of the Prime Minister regarding events occurring under his administration.
As the Barbara-gate scandal unfolds, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Biman Prasad has emerged as a central figure, facing accusations related to multiple undeclared assets, income, and liabilities.
At the center of the controversy, Malimali’s swift appointment as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has drawn criticism, with indications that her role may be to obstruct any investigations that could involve the Finance Minister.
Attorney-General Graham Leung has come to Malimali’s defense, suggesting that her appointment is intended to safeguard the interests of those holding power and to prevent accountability.
In a significant development, Acting Deputy Commissioner Francis Pulewai submitted her resignation after a meeting with the Judicial Services Commission (JSC), stating, “I told them I can’t work with Barbara.” She clarified that her resignation was not motivated by personal interests but rather a commitment to uphold the rule of law.
Pulewai indicated that there were plans for Prasad to face arrest, but those actions would be put on hold until the new Commissioner arrives, at which point decisions will be made. She emphasized the need for the investigation files to remain untouched and free from external influence, asserting that the inquiry into Prasad predates her tenure.
With her departure, Pulewai expressed hope that FICAC’s integrity would remain intact, wishing for justice and adherence to the rule of law.
In response to queries regarding Pulewai’s resignation, Prasad stated that the issue is now for the incoming commissioner to handle. He claimed that his legal team has been in communication with FICAC regarding the complaints and asserted that there is no merit to the allegations against him, concluding that the matter rests there.
Meanwhile, Justice Minister Siromi Turaga confirmed that Malimali had lodged a complaint with the JSC regarding a recent FICAC search at the Electoral Commission. On the afternoon of her appointment, she was introduced to FICAC staff by Chief Registrar Tomasi Bainivalu.
The following day, upon her arrival at work, Malimali faced questioning from FICAC investigators but was released around midday. In the meantime, Pulewai communicated to Turaga that Prasad would be facing charges.
Turaga pointed out that Malimali was appointed by the JSC and clarified that she was unaware of any ongoing investigation until her first day on the job, contributing to confusion surrounding the process. He noted that details of the investigation had been leaked on social media, compromising confidentiality upheld by the JSC.
FICAC operates under the protection of the 2013 Constitution, and Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica insisted that due process was respected, highlighting that two esteemed judges are part of the JSC.
Kamikanica stated, “We are not going to interfere. This Government is all about protecting democracy—there’s no interference at all.” The People’s Alliance Party has pledged to abolish FICAC within its first 100 days in office.