Professor Shaista Shameem, the vice-chancellor of the University of Fiji, is facing scrutiny after a letter, purportedly authored by her, has circulated on social media. The letter is addressed to Justice Salesi Temo, the chair of the Judicial Services Commission (JSC), and contains serious allegations against Justice David Ashton-Lewis, the commissioner of the inquiry concerning the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner for the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).
In the letter, Professor Shameem claims that Justice Ashton-Lewis confronted her in a public setting last December. During this encounter, he allegedly discussed the potential for altering the 2013 Constitution and indicated that the Supreme Court could influence the Cabinet to repeal it. She expressed her concern regarding his approach, noting his assertive demeanor and the implications of suggesting that the courts could effectively change laws.
The content of the letter includes alarming statements allegedly made by Justice Ashton-Lewis, who indicated that his opinion, shared with two other Supreme Court judges, could lead to significant constitutional changes. Professor Shameem believes that exposing such matters publicly threatens the integrity of the law-making process in Fiji, as it implies prejudgment regarding the Supreme Court’s handling of constitutional affairs.
When contacted for comment, Professor Shameem declined to speak about the letter, and inquiries sent to Justice Temo’s office have gone unanswered.
This incident is occurring against a backdrop of growing concern regarding Justice Ashton-Lewis’s conduct as he leads the Commission of Inquiry, particularly following recent criticisms from various legal and political figures regarding comments he made in an interview. The Fiji Law Society has even called for his resignation, citing actions that they believe undermine judicial independence.
The climate surrounding these inquiries into judicial appointments signifies an important period for potential reforms within Fiji’s governmental structures. Many hope that this scrutiny will foster a renewed commitment to accountability and transparency, ensuring that the integrity of Fiji’s institutions is upheld moving forward.
As this situation unfolds, it is crucial for stakeholders in Fiji’s governance to navigate these challenges thoughtfully, with an eye toward reinforcing public trust and ethical standards in public service.
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