Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has stated that Barbara Malimali, the newly appointed Commissioner for the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption, does not need to be suspended as investigations are underway. Addressing the media, Rabuka asserted that the ongoing investigation is unrelated to her recent appointment.
He clarified that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is currently overseeing the situation, which he described as a separate matter. Rabuka emphasized that if Malimali is found to have committed any wrongdoing, she must take responsibility.
The Office of the DPP has passed Malimali’s investigation file to the Director of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to ensure the investigation is concluded. This decision followed discussions between Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva and Deputy DPP John Rabuku, who was assigned to examine the issue.
According to the DPP’s office, it was determined that the investigation was not yet complete, prompting the referral to the CID with instructions to finalize the inquiry. They noted that further updates would be provided once the review is finished and the investigation file is returned for additional action.
In terms of context, Malimali is under investigation for alleged abuse of office, with the complaint originating from her time as Chairperson of the Electoral Commission.