Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed his willingness to initiate an investigation into the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).
In a recent interview, Rabuka indicated that he is reviewing relevant regulations and legislation to determine the appropriate process for establishing a Board of Inquiry. His aim is to examine specific issues surrounding Malimali’s appointment to the role of FICAC Commissioner.
Rabuka stated, “Once I have reviewed the legal framework for setting that up, I will call for one to be established to identify all the individuals involved in what we currently see as a complex matter, from the appointment to the resignations of the two office holders of FICAC.”
The Prime Minister also mentioned that he is not aware of the details included in the report submitted by Francis Pulewai, who recently resigned as Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC. He added that the inquiry would investigate allegations of interference in ongoing investigations.
Additionally, Rabuka noted a delay in receiving Malimali’s resignation from her position as Chair of the Electoral Commission, suggesting that the resignation was submitted to him late.
Meanwhile, Acting Commissioner Juki Fong Chew has confirmed that FICAC has received an official report concerning allegations of abuse of office involving Pulewai.