Justice David Ashton-Lewis, the Sole Commissioner of Inquiry, has emphasized the need for fairness and accuracy in media reporting concerning the ongoing inquiry into the appointment of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner, Barbara Malimali. His appeal comes in response to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s concerns regarding recent media portrayals of his testimony, which were described as a “grilling.”

Justice Ashton-Lewis clarified that Rabuka’s experience while giving testimony was not as harsh as suggested, stating, “He wasn’t given a grilling. The questions were tough, and he answered them perfectly.” This emphasizes the professionalism expected from individuals with Rabuka’s background and experience.

Moreover, Justice Ashton-Lewis has acknowledged the integrity and cooperation of witnesses participating in the inquiry, noting, “There are no suspicions of lies” so far. This positive reinforcement signals a commitment to transparency throughout the proceedings. The inquiry has also seen some witnesses providing testimonies virtually due to logistical issues, especially those traveling from New Zealand and Australia.

Acknowledging the situation, Rabuka stated that he would refrain from making further comments until the completion of the inquiry but highlighted his commitment to the process. He also mentioned the possibility of extending the inquiry’s timeline if necessary, noting that it would be at the discretion of the President.

In a broader context, the inquiry aims to enhance accountability and transparency within Fiji’s governance structures. As the hearings progress, they are contributing to the restoration of public trust in the nation’s institutions, fostering optimism about future reforms that ensure integrity in public appointments.

Overall, this inquiry process reflects a hopeful shift towards improved governance in Fiji, signaling a collective effort to address any concerns and reinforce the ethical framework guiding public service.