The Commission of Inquiry (COI) into Barbara Malimali’s appointment as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) is progressing with significant developments reported. Commissioner Justice David Ashton-Lewis announced that the inquiry, set to conclude by this Friday, will recall between two to five witnesses to address new evidence that has emerged since their initial testimonies. Ms. Malimali is scheduled to appear again for questioning as well.
Justice Ashton-Lewis emphasized the necessity of thorough questioning in order to ensure the integrity and depth of the inquiry. “We have between two to five witnesses that we will recall because we want to put questions to them in light of evidence that came up since they first gave evidence,” he stated. He noted that the commission has not received responses from the Prime Minister and President regarding the King Counsel’s opinion on whether the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) has the authority to suspend her.
Similar articles have highlighted the importance of this inquiry, which seeks to determine if Malimali’s September 2024 appointment was conducted legally and free from any improper influences, especially in relation to ongoing high-profile FICAC cases. Seven witnesses have already provided their testimonies out of the planned 35, and the gather of evidence will play a crucial role in the final report expected to be written over the next few weeks.
The findings from this investigation are significant, representing a broader movement toward ensuring transparency and accountability within Fiji’s governance systems. As the hearings continue, there is optimism that the inquiry will lead to meaningful reforms and help restore public confidence in governmental processes and institutions.
In summary, the ongoing inquiry into Barbara Malimali’s appointment serves as a critical opportunity for reinforcing ethical standards within Fiji’s governance framework. The hope remains that the proceedings will yield important insights that can enhance accountability and integrity in public service appointments.
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