Justice David Ashton-Lewis has expressed commendation for the honesty exhibited by witnesses during the ongoing Commission of Inquiry into the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). Speaking to the media, Justice Ashton-Lewis commented that, typically in court settings, people strive to be truthful, stating, “Very rarely do you find liars, but you do occasionally.” He noted that there have been no suspicions of deceit among witnesses so far, highlighting a strong level of cooperation.

Some witnesses are participating virtually, largely due to logistical difficulties that prevent them from traveling from locations such as New Zealand and Australia. Justice Ashton-Lewis emphasized the commission’s role in facilitating the process, stating, “Our job is to get their evidence and to do what we can to assist.”

Senior Barrister Janet Mason acknowledged that the timeline for submitting the commission’s report may require adjustment due to the unexpected length of witness testimonies. She emphasized the importance of fair procedures, especially for those who may face prejudice as a result of the inquiry.

Today, the inquiry is set to hear from former President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere, an important step in this crucial examination of political accountability. The ongoing inquiry aims to validate the legality and ethicality of Malimali’s appointment, addressing overarching concerns regarding governance within the FICAC.

The proceedings signal a collective pursuit of transparency and integrity in Fiji’s political landscape, fostering hope that this inquiry will contribute to restored public trust in governmental institutions and lead to reforms that strengthen public appointments in the future. As such, the inquiry reflects a positive shift towards a more transparent governance framework, which is essential for the integrity of public service in Fiji.