Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that he will soon present a letter to the President seeking approval for a Commission of Inquiry regarding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).
Rabuka previously stated that defining the scope and specific mandate of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) is within his authority. Malimali’s appointment on September 4 has sparked controversy as she is currently under investigation by the very agency she is set to lead.
“We are just waiting for the President to get back; I will get him to sign the approval,” Rabuka mentioned. He added, “I have recommended in my letter that it be presented to him upon his return.”
The agenda for the inquiry will cover the issues surrounding the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption, namely the appointment of FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali, allegations of ministerial interference, and accusations of scapegoating regarding ministerial charges.