Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has stated that there is no need for Barbara Malimali, the newly appointed Commissioner for the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption, to step down while investigations are ongoing. In a media briefing, Rabuka emphasized that the inquiry is unrelated to her appointment.
He noted that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is currently overseeing the case, which he classified as a separate matter. “If she did something, she needs to front up,” he remarked.
The Office of the DPP has transferred Malimali’s investigation file to the Director of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to finalize the investigation. This decision came after discussions between Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva and Deputy DPP John Rabuku, who was assigned to the case. They concluded that the investigation was incomplete, prompting the referral to the CID for further examination.
The ODPP has indicated that an update will be provided once the review is finished and the investigation file is submitted back to them for subsequent action.
In terms of background, Malimali is under investigation for alleged misuse of her office. FICAC has confirmed that the complaint arises from claims of abuse during her time as Chairperson of the Electoral Commission.