The Fiji Labour Party (FLP) has expressed concern over Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s continued public statements regarding the legitimacy of Barbara Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner before an inquiry is completed.
In their statement, the FLP declared that Malimali’s appointment was unlawful as she was under investigation by FICAC at the time. They criticized the Judicial Services Commission for appointing her prior to clearance from the agency.
FLP Leader Mahendra Chaudhry emphasized that claims about the legality of her appointment are misleading. He pointed out the many issues surrounding Malimali’s appointment and questioned the motives behind it, particularly in light of Francis Puleiwai’s resignation as Deputy Commissioner.
Chaudhry further alleged that the timing of the appointment seemed aimed at interfering with the operations of an independent authority and obstructing the potential arrest of Professor Biman Prasad, who faces several charges regarding false financial reporting to the Registrar of Political Parties.
The former Prime Minister also expressed unease about the Prime Minister’s comments that the Cabinet would discuss the inquiry’s terms of reference next Tuesday. He highlighted that several Cabinet Ministers are under FICAC investigation due to complaints from the Registrar of Political Parties, suggesting a significant conflict of interest.
Chaudhry questioned whether these ministers should be allowed to influence the inquiry’s terms and the selection of its members.
The FLP noted that the Prime Minister has assured that Puleiwai could return to Fiji to participate in the inquiry. However, Chaudhry pointed out that such assurances from the Prime Minister depend heavily on support from his ministers and relevant government bodies.