A board of inquiry will be established to address the growing distrust surrounding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stated that this inquiry aims to uncover the issues that have led to the controversy.
Rabuka emphasized that there are many unanswered questions regarding Malimali’s resignation from the Electoral Commission and her subsequent appointment as commissioner. He believes a thorough investigation is necessary to uphold the integrity of the appointment process.
Labeling the situation as a “difficult issue,” the Prime Minister announced that the board of inquiry would identify all individuals involved in the handling of Malimali’s resignation from the Electoral Commission and her FICAC appointment. “Those involved will have to account for their actions,” Rabuka stated, suggesting that some may bear responsibility for any wrongdoing.
He highlighted that there were delays in communicating Malimali’s resignation to his office, indicating that someone had taken too long to relay important information. Rabuka seeks documentation, including a copy of the resignation letter, to clarify the timeline and put an end to ongoing speculations and allegations.
The process of setting up the inquiry has already commenced. The Prime Minister is currently reviewing the relevant inquiry regulations and legislation to understand how to officially establish the board. He aims to determine all parties involved in what has become a complex and contentious issue.
Additionally, the chairman of the Constitutional Offices Commission has requested information regarding the timing of Malimali’s resignation and the circumstances surrounding the resignation of former FICAC deputy commissioner Francis Pulewai on September 5. He stressed the importance of bringing these matters to light to clear up any confusion and allegations of misconduct related to ongoing investigations.