The Minister for Justice has criticized the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) for its investigations into senior Cabinet Ministers, labeling them as “acts of malice.” Siromi Turaga has indicated that an investigation is underway to determine who leaked a FICAC letter last Wednesday, which disclosed intentions to charge Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad.
In his strong response, Mr. Turaga revealed that he also received a letter related to his own FICAC inquiry. Additionally, Acting Deputy FICAC Francis Puleiwai resigned last Thursday, stating her decision was made to maintain “the rule of law” and to protect her personal integrity.
Mr. Turaga emphasized that the release of the information was done with malicious intent, predicting that accountability will be established in the coming weeks. He pointed out that the letter regarding the investigation was leaked before it was delivered to his office, implying a coordinated effort behind the breach.
He also expressed concern over the timing of the leak, which occurred shortly before the new FICAC Commissioner, Barbara Malimali, assumed her duties. Mr. Turaga argued that any complaint regarding his actions should have been reviewed by the Supervisor of Elections, a step that he claims was neglected.
“We have been defamed over allegations that remain unclear,” he stated. In defense of Ms. Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner, he noted that the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) adhered to proper procedures during the process.
“Perhaps this will provide some perspective on why the JSC deemed it necessary to proceed with the appointment,” Mr. Turaga remarked. The JSC chairperson and Acting Chief Justice, Salesi Temo, along with Attorney-General Graham Leung, also publicly endorsed Ms. Malimali’s appointment.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka mentioned that he was not fully aware of the details surrounding FICAC’s investigations. “The only two ministers who approached me were Ravu, who is now suspended, and Biman, who was ultimately not charged,” Mr. Rabuka noted. He stated, “I have no involvement with the work, appointment, or decisions regarding FICAC.”