The Minister for Justice has criticized the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) for its investigations into senior Cabinet Ministers, describing them as “acts of malice.” Siromi Turaga indicated that an investigation is likely to follow to ascertain who disclosed a FICAC letter revealing plans to charge Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad.
In spite of his strong condemnation, Mr. Turaga acknowledged that he also received a letter regarding his own case under FICAC scrutiny. In a related development, Francis Puleiwai, the Acting Deputy FICAC, resigned last Thursday, stating the need to uphold “the rule of law” and maintain her personal integrity.
Mr. Turaga stated, “The release was actually done with malice. In the coming weeks, it will become clear that someone will be held accountable.” He pointed out that the letter from FICAC regarding the investigation was leaked prior to its arrival at his office, implying “collaboration and malice” were involved in the leak. He criticized the timing of the leak, especially as it occurred just before Barbara Malimali assumed her role as the new FICAC Commissioner. Mr. Turaga argued that the complaint against him should have been reviewed by the Supervisor of Elections, which he claims did not happen.
“We have been defamed over allegations that remain unclear,” he asserted. Mr. Turaga also defended Ms. Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner amid ongoing criticism, emphasizing that the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) adhered to due process in her selection. “Perhaps this will provide some perspective on why the JSC felt it necessary to proceed with the appointment,” he remarked.
Support for Ms. Malimali’s appointment was echoed by JSC chairperson and Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo, as well as Attorney-General Graham Leung. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka informed the press that he was not fully aware of the details surrounding FICAC’s investigations. “The only two ministers who spoke to me were Ravu, who is now suspended, and Biman, who ultimately was not charged,” Mr. Rabuka elaborated. “I have no involvement with the work, appointment, or decisions regarding FICAC.”