Former President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere is scheduled to testify in the ongoing Commission of Inquiry (COI) investigating the appointment process of Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner Barbara Malimali. A range of high-profile individuals, including Attorney-General Graham Leung, Chief Justice Salesi Temo, Chief Registrar Tomasi Bainivalu, Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Nancy Tikoisuva, Deputy DPP John Rabuku, Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew, and Members of Parliament Kalivati Ravu and Semi Koroilavesau, are also expected to give their testimonies.

The primary aim of the inquiry, presided over by Justice David Aston-Lewis of the Supreme Court, is to determine whether Malimali’s appointment in September of last year adhered to legal standards and was free from any improper or unlawful influences. The COI will scrutinize any potential vested interests that may have affected this process, particularly those related to ongoing FICAC investigations involving senior public officials.

Representing Malimali is Suva lawyer Tanya Waqanika. The final report from the COI is expected to be submitted to both the President and the Prime Minister by the end of January. The hearing is set to continue this morning at 9:30 am.

This inquiry not only serves as a critical evaluation of the appointment processes within public institutions but also reflects the broader necessity for transparency and accountability in governance. As the proceedings unfold, there exists a hopeful potential for meaningful reform that could enhance the integrity of public service in Fiji, thereby restoring public confidence in its governmental structures.