A board of inquiry is set to be established to address the distrust surrounding the appointment of Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner Barbara Malimali. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stated that the inquiry aims to uncover the issues that led to the controversy.
Rabuka highlighted that there are numerous questions regarding Malimali’s resignation from the Electoral Commission and her subsequent appointment as FICAC Commissioner. He indicated that a thorough investigation is necessary to maintain the integrity of the appointment process.
Labeling the situation a “difficult issue,” Rabuka confirmed that the inquiry would identify those involved in the circumstances surrounding Malimali’s resignation and her later appointment as commissioner. He emphasized that individuals connected to the situation would need to provide explanations, suggesting that some may be found guilty of wrongdoing.
Rabuka noted that there was a delay in communicating Malimali’s resignation to his office, indicating that the necessary information was not relayed promptly. He mentioned the importance of reviewing the timeline of events to dispel speculations and concerns regarding the situation.
The process to establish the “board of inquiry” is already underway. Rabuka stated he is currently reviewing the regulations and legislation required for calling such an inquiry, assuring that once he has clarified the legal framework, he will initiate the inquiry to examine all parties involved in what he describes as a challenging issue.
The chairman of the Constitutional Offices Commission has also expressed a desire for details regarding the timeline of Malimali’s resignation and sought clarification on the resignation of former FICAC deputy commissioner Francis Pulewai on September 5. He emphasized the importance of investigating the appointments and resignations of both officials, including allegations of interference in ongoing investigations, to bring clarity to the situation.