The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has referred the case against its commissioner Barbara Malimali to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP) for further evaluation.
In a statement released yesterday, FICAC explained that the matter involves a complaint of alleged abuse of office connected to Ms. Malimali’s time as the chair of the Electoral Commission of Fiji (ECF).
Ms. Malimali expressed last week that she was unaware of an active investigation against her until a raid conducted by investigators at the Electoral Commission’s office on September 3. She stated she did not receive prior notice regarding her detention and questioning by investigators when she reported to work at FICAC on September 5.
Additionally, FICAC confirmed that five cases previously referred by the Supervisor of Elections earlier this year have been closed, with the Supervisor informed of their closure on July 24, 2024. These cases include allegations of corrupt practices involving false declarations by the FijiFirst party, particularly against the FijiFirst Australia Association Incorporated, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and Tito Bainimarama.
Moreover, the cases encompass complaints against Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and Mohammed Saneem regarding collusion and conflicts of interest, as well as allegations against Arif Ali for making a $10,000 donation to the FijiFirst party while serving as a civil servant. Additional complaints involve President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and Charan Jeath Singh, as well as Voreqe Bainimarama for submitting false income, asset, and liability declarations for the years 2014 to 2019 and 2022. Furthermore, there is a complaint against Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum for not declaring overseas travel allowances.
FICAC stated, “Regarding the other matters referred by the Supervisor of Elections, these investigations are ongoing and FICAC will refrain from commenting until they are complete.” They assured that the Commission continues to operate as usual, with all processes and procedures remaining unchanged. FICAC emphasized its commitment to address every complaint with the thoroughness it deserves, regardless of the individual’s identity involved.
In the meantime, Fiji Labour Party (FLP) leader Mahendra Chaudhry has called for Ms. Malimali to step aside to enable the inquiry suggested by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to proceed without interference. Responding to Mr. Rabuka’s suggestion that an inquiry is necessary to address concerns related to Ms. Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner, Mr. Chaudhry urged the Prime Minister to expedite the inquiry’s establishment, stressing its necessity for true independence with members lacking connections to those involved in the issue or its decision-making process.