Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has expressed support for the Prime Minister’s proposal to establish a board of inquiry concerning the Barbara Malimali situation, citing the ongoing public discourse.
Seruiratu pointed out that while the Prime Minister acknowledged receiving Malimali’s resignation letter on September 14, the exact procedures followed by the involved parties remain unclear. He highlighted the timeline of events, noting that Malimali resigned on September 3, was introduced to FICAC staff the following day, and officially began her role as FICAC Commissioner on September 5.
He questioned whether these actions were standard and consistent with her contract as chair of the Electoral Commission, asserting that an inquiry would be beneficial in resolving these matters.
In a related development, Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry has claimed that both the Prime Minister and President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere were aware of a FICAC investigation into Malimali before her appointment as Commissioner. Chaudhry stated that they received a letter from FICAC on August 30 regarding the investigation, which concerns allegations of abuse of office.
He suggested that Malimali’s appointment was politically motivated to prevent the investigation and charging of certain ministers. Chaudhry contended that any hindrance to the legal process in these cases would jeopardize public trust in law enforcement and undermine the Rabuka administration. He urged the Prime Minister to prioritize transparency and truth in this matter.