Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Nancy Tikoisuva and Deputy DPP John Rabuku are set to testify today at the Commission of Inquiry (COI) that is focused on the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner. They will be joined by former Minister for Forests and Fisheries Kalivati Ravu and Semi Koroilavesau, who have also been summoned to provide their accounts.
The COI, which is overseen by Justice David Aston-Lewis of the Supreme Court, aims to determine whether the process leading to Malimali’s appointment in September 2024 complied with legal requirements and was free from any improper or unlawful influences. Key areas of scrutiny include the potential impact of vested interests, especially with regard to ongoing investigations involving high-profile figures such as Members of Parliament and senior public servants connected to FICAC.
Tanya Waqanika, a lawyer from Suva, is representing Malimali during these proceedings. The COI is expected to submit its findings to both the President and the Prime Minister by the end of January.
This inquiry not only serves to assess the integrity of the public service appointment process but also reflects a broader commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability within Fiji’s government. As the hearings progress, there is a hopeful outlook for reforms that could restore public confidence in governmental practices and promote ethical standards in public service execution.
In summary, the COI is critically examining the legitimacy of FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali’s appointment, witnessing vital testimonies from significant figures that underline essential principles of accountability and transparency in governance. The outcomes of this inquiry could pave the way for necessary reforms, reinforcing integrity within Fiji’s public administration.
Leave a comment