Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga has raised eyebrows within the Coalition Government by referring to the media’s coverage of the FICAC situation as an “obsession.” Last week, he was asked for his views on the ongoing controversy surrounding the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) during a parliamentary session.
In response, Turaga questioned, “What’s this obsession with this FICAC controversy?” He went on to dismiss any allegations of ministerial interference.
The FICAC, which is the nation’s primary anti-corruption body, has been in the spotlight for several months due to the appointment of its commissioner, Barbara Malimali, who was under investigation by FICAC at the time of her appointment. Ms. Malimali was appointed by President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere based on recommendations from the Judicial Service Commission, in consultation with the government’s legal advisor, Graham Leung. Both organizations have defended the legitimacy of the appointment process.
Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has been vocal in his criticism, urging Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to address the controversy more decisively.
Today’s Cabinet meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister is expected to cover the agenda regarding the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry (COI) to investigate the various issues surrounding the FICAC saga.