A Commission of Inquiry has begun at the Old Parliamentary complex in Veiuto, Suva, aimed at evaluating the legality of the appointment process of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). The two-week inquiry commenced today, with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka testifying first, given his role as the chairman of the Constitutional Offices Commission.
Under the leadership of Supreme Court Judge Justice David Aston-Lewis, the Commission will investigate potential improper influences that may have impacted Malimali’s appointment on September 5, 2024. The inquiry will also scrutinize whether any vested interests, including ongoing FICAC cases involving prominent figures like Members of Parliament, Ministers, and senior public servants, unlawfully or improperly influenced the appointment process.
As part of this inquiry, a diverse array of 34 witnesses will be called, including Deputy Prime Ministers Professor Biman Prasad and Manoa Kamikamica, former Women’s Minister Lynda Tabuya, Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu, Attorney-General Graham Leung, and former President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere. Suva lawyer Tanya Waqanika is representing Malimali during the proceedings.
The Commission is expected to produce its final report, addressing the findings of the inquiry, which will be submitted to the President and the Prime Minister by January 31, 2025.
This inquiry represents a significant step toward ensuring accountability in the appointment processes of key positions within the FICAC, underscoring the commitment to uphold the rule of law and integrity within government institutions. It’s a hopeful sign that processes will be scrutinized to ensure transparency and fairness in governance.
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