Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed his agreement with Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry regarding the need for Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) commissioner Barbara Malimali to step aside during an inquiry into her appointment.
“I agree,” Rabuka stated. He also mentioned that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) should address the “Out Report” prepared by Pulewai before her dismissal as acting commissioner of FICAC.
Rabuka announced that a board of inquiry would soon be established to resolve the issues of distrust surrounding Malimali’s resignation from the Electoral Commission and her subsequent appointment as FICAC commissioner. He emphasized the necessity of a thorough investigation to uphold the integrity of the appointment process.
Chaudhry welcomed Rabuka’s decision to create a board of inquiry, asserting that the public supports efforts to “flush out the rot” within FICAC, which he claims has disturbed the nation. He reiterated that it is essential for Malimali to step aside to facilitate an unobstructed inquiry. Chaudhry also stressed the importance of ensuring that the inquiry remains genuinely independent, with no members connected to any parties involved in the situation or its decision-making process.