Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has stated that the newly appointed Commissioner for the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption, Barbara Malimali, does not need to be suspended while investigations are ongoing. In a media briefing, Rabuka clarified, “No, she does not need to… It’s got nothing to do with her appointment.” He mentioned that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is currently managing the situation, which is unrelated to her new role.
“If she did something, she needs to front up,” Rabuka added. The office of the DPP has forwarded Malimali’s investigation file to the Director of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for further investigation. This development follows discussions between Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva and Deputy DPP John Rabuku, who was assigned to look into the issue.
“A decision was reached that the investigation into this matter was incomplete; therefore, the file has been sent to the Director CID with recommendations to complete the investigation,” the DPP’s office stated. They also indicated that an update will be provided once the review is finished and the investigation file is returned for further action.
Background information indicates that Malimali is under investigation for alleged abuse of office. The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption has confirmed that the complaint relates to actions taken during her time as Chairperson of the Electoral Commission.