Justice David E. Ashton-Lewis, a senior Australian jurist and current Judge of the Supreme Court of Fiji, has been appointed by President Wiliame M. Katonivere to serve as the sole Commissioner for an inquiry into the recent appointment of the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). This inquiry, set to commence on September 5, 2024, will focus on evaluating whether the process of appointing Barbara Malimali as FICAC Commissioner adhered to principles of integrity, fairness, and transparency.
The inquiry aims to uncover any potential improper influences in the appointment process, examining whether vested interests—particularly related to ongoing FICAC investigations involving high-profile figures such as Members of Parliament and senior public servants—have affected the legitimacy of Malimali’s appointment.
Justice Ashton-Lewis brings a wealth of legal expertise to this role, having previously chaired the Constitutional Tribunal that investigated allegations against former Chief Justice Kamal Kumar, who unfortunately passed away before hearings began. He has served as a Justice on both the High Court and the Fiji Court of Appeal and also holds positions as an Adjunct Professor of Law and a consultant in judicial and parliamentary governance. He is a member of the Victorian and Tasmanian Bars.
Additionally, President Katonivere has appointed Janet Mason, a senior barrister with dual New Zealand and Fijian citizenship, as Counsel assisting the Commission. Mason is well-versed in public, governance, and constitutional law and has significant experience working with bodies like the Great Council of Chiefs, as well as contributing to Treaty of Waitangi negotiations.
The Commission is preparing to begin its work soon, with plans for a secretariat to support its proceedings already underway. This inquiry represents a proactive step towards ensuring accountability and transparency within Fiji’s governance frameworks, helping to uphold the integrity of critical institutions like FICAC in the eyes of the public.
This initiative not only seeks to address current concerns regarding integrity in public service but also reinforces a broader commitment to ethical governance, promising a hopeful path toward greater accountability in Fiji’s political landscape.
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