The Commission of Inquiry (COI) investigating the appointment of lawyer Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) is requesting an extension for its hearings until the end of February. This extension is sought due to the substantial volume of evidence still pending review, as the commission has heard testimonies from only seven out of the 35 invited witnesses thus far.

Justice David Ashton-Lewis, overseeing the inquiry, emphasized the importance of conducting detailed questioning to understand the intricacies of the case. He indicated that the COI was initially scheduled to submit its final report by the end of January, but now recognizes the need for more time to thoroughly evaluate all evidence presented. Justice Ashton-Lewis stated, “We have gone through seven; we still have 28 to go,” pointing out the considerable workload that remains and the necessity of ensuring that comprehensive testimonies are collected.

The inquiry aims to ascertain whether Malimali’s appointment in September adhered to legal protocols and whether it was influenced by vested interests, especially concerning ongoing FICAC investigations linked to high-profile public officials. Counsel Assistant Janet Mason underscored that the inquiry not only assesses individual actions but also examines the integrity of institutions involved in the appointment process, including the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) and the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC).

So far, witnesses have provided factual and unbiased accounts, contributing positively to the inquiry’s goal of fostering accountability and transparency within the public sector. Both Justice Ashton-Lewis and Mason expressed optimism that the President would grant the requested extension, highlighting its importance for maintaining the integrity of the inquiry.

If approved, the extension would allow the COI to conduct a more meticulous examination of remaining testimonies, fostering a culture of transparency and enhancing public trust in government institutions. This inquiry represents a critical opportunity for Fiji to reinforce its governance framework and may lead to significant reforms aimed at improving accountability and integrity within public services.

In summary, the ongoing efforts of the COI signal a strong dedication to uncovering the truth surrounding Malimali’s appointment, with the potential for meaningful reforms that could ultimately enhance governance in Fiji and restore public confidence in its institutions. This proactive approach reflects a hopeful trajectory towards maintaining the rule of law and promoting democratic values within the nation.