The Commission of Inquiry (COI) examining the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has entered its second week, with indications that the proceedings may require an extension due to their complexity. Tanya Waqanika, Malimali’s defense counsel and a lawyer based in Suva, expressed that the inquiry has been lengthy, but thorough.

In an interview, Waqanika refrained from addressing whether the inquiry is being perceived as a targeted attack to undermine Malimali’s credibility. However, she assured that Malimali is maintaining a positive outlook during this challenging period. Both women have been supporting each other, even attending the same church recently, which highlights Malimali’s good spirits amid the scrutiny.

The inquiry, presided over by Supreme Court Justice David Aston-Lewis, is tasked with determining whether Malimali’s appointment in September 2024 complied with legal procedures and was devoid of any improper influences, particularly in connection with ongoing FICAC cases involving prominent politicians and senior government officials. The hearings are set to conclude later this month, with the final report expected to be delivered to Fiji’s President and Prime Minister by the end of January.

As the inquiry continues to gather testimonies from influential figures, including the Acting Director of Public Prosecutions and former government ministers, there is hope that its findings will lead to a significant reassessment of governance practices in Fiji. This COI represents a crucial opportunity for enhancing transparency and accountability in public service appointments, which could ultimately foster greater public confidence in governance.

In summary, the ongoing COI aims to clarify the circumstances surrounding Malimali’s appointment while promoting ethical standards in governance. Its outcomes hold the potential to pave the way for necessary reforms, reinforcing the importance of integrity and transparency in Fiji’s public institutions.