The Cabinet is set to address a proposal next Tuesday aimed at establishing a Commission of Inquiry regarding the recent issues surrounding the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) and the appointment of its new Commissioner, Barbara Malimali. This discussion follows allegations made by the former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced the upcoming Cabinet meeting during a press conference, emphasizing the significance of the inquiry for maintaining the integrity of the government and institutions like FICAC. He stated, “We cannot undo what is done but we can make sure it does not happen again and if anyone had contravened any standing orders, law, or regulations, then they would be brought to light.”
Addressing concerns raised by former Acting Deputy Commissioner Francis Puleiwai, who claimed she left Fiji for Australia due to safety threats, Rabuka maintained that there would be no heavy-handed government interference in the matter. He reassured that Puleiwai would be safe to return to Fiji.
It remains uncertain whether the findings of the Commission of Inquiry will be made public. However, Rabuka insisted that the law will guide the investigation, and the Cabinet will receive recommendations from the commission.