Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Nancy Tikoisuva and Deputy DPP John Rabuku are set to testify today before the Commission of Inquiry (COI) investigating the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). They will be joined by former Minister for Forests and Fisheries Kalivati Ravu and Semi Koroilavesau, who have also been summoned to provide their testimonies.

The COI, overseen by Supreme Court Justice David Aston-Lewis, aims to determine whether Malimali’s appointment in September was conducted according to legal standards and was free from any improper or unlawful influences. Important areas of scrutiny will include any potential vested interests impacting the appointment process, particularly concerning ongoing FICAC investigations involving high-profile individuals such as Members of Parliament and senior public servants.

Tanya Waqanika, a lawyer based in Suva, is representing Malimali during these proceedings. The inquiry is expected to submit its final report to both the President and the Prime Minister by the end of January.

This inquiry serves as a crucial evaluation of the integrity of public service appointments, reinforcing the commitment to transparency and accountability in governance. As the hearings unfold, there is an optimistic perspective that the findings will spark necessary reforms, cultivating a culture of ethical standards within the public service sector in Fiji.

In summary, the ongoing inquiry critically assesses the legitimacy of FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali’s appointment, focusing on important ideals of accountability and integrity in governance. The results from this COI could pave the way for reforms aimed at enhancing public confidence in governmental operations.