Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Nancy Tikoisuva and Deputy DPP John Rabuku are set to give their testimonies today before the ongoing Commission of Inquiry (COI). This investigation centers around the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). Also summoned to appear are former Minister for Forests and Fisheries Kalivati Ravu and Semi Koroilavesau.

The COI, led by Supreme Court Justice David Aston-Lewis, is tasked with assessing whether Malimali’s appointment in September 2024 was executed in compliance with established legal standards and free from any improper or unlawful influences. A significant focus will be on identifying any vested interests that may have impacted the appointment process, particularly those tied to active FICAC investigations involving prominent officials, including Members of Parliament and senior public servants.

Representing Malimali in this inquiry is Tanya Waqanika, a lawyer based in Suva. The COI is expected to present its final report to both the President and the Prime Minister by the end of January.

This inquiry highlights the crucial need for transparency and accountability in Fiji’s governance. By examining the processes surrounding public service appointments, it not only seeks to uphold the integrity of institutions like FICAC but also aims to restore public trust in government operations. As the hearings unfold, there is a promising outlook that the findings could lead to essential reforms, fostering a culture of ethical standards within public service and governance.

In summary, the ongoing inquiry is critical in evaluating the legitimacy of FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali’s appointment, with important testimonies expected from several high-profile government figures. The outcomes of this inquiry are anticipated to pave the way for necessary reforms, reinforcing the principles of accountability and integrity within Fiji’s public administration, thereby nurturing hope for a more transparent governance system.