Francis Puleiwai, the former acting deputy commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), has disclosed that she left Fiji for Australia due to safety concerns arising from threats she received. In a recent interview with ABC News Australia, Puleiwai stated that the threats began following her resignation from her position on September 5.
“I departed Fiji early on September 7,” she said, explaining that her resignation was effective immediately and followed by distressing news she received the same afternoon. Familiar with the local environment as someone born and raised in Fiji, she initially did not take the threats seriously, given her deep involvement in FICAC investigations.
However, concerns for her children’s safety led her to consider her family’s security. She mentioned a break-in at her home, which heightened her fears. “I was constantly thinking not just of my safety but of my family as well,” she noted.
Puleiwai recounted that after a family decision, she left for Australia first, as she had a valid three-year visa. In a troubling incident, she discovered upon leaving that the tyres of her vehicle had been punctured and later confirmed were deliberately slashed.
Puleiwai also indicated that there were indirect threats suggesting she refrain from commenting on FICAC commissioner Barbara Malimali’s appointment. While she remained composed, her husband, with his military background, advised caution regarding her safety.
Attorney-General Graham Leung stated that he was unaware of any threats directed at Puleiwai following her resignation.