Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has stated that Barbara Malimali, the newly appointed Commissioner for the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption, will not be required to step down while investigations are underway. In comments to the media, Rabuka clarified that the ongoing investigations do not pertain to her appointment.
He noted that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is managing the investigation, which is a distinct matter from her current role. “If she did something, she needs to front up,” Rabuka added.
The Office of the DPP has forwarded Malimali’s case file to the Directorate of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to ensure the investigation is finalized. This decision followed discussions between Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva and Deputy DPP John Rabuku, who was assigned to examine the situation.
A consensus was reached indicating that the investigation was still incomplete, prompting the file’s transfer to CID with recommendations for further inquiry. The ODPP will provide updates once the review is finished and the investigation file is returned for additional action.
In terms of background, Malimali is under investigation for alleged abuse of office, with the complaint linked to her previous role as Chairperson of the Electoral Commission.