Justice David Ashton-Lewis has publicly recognized the integrity of witnesses participating in the Commission of Inquiry (COI) regarding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). In a media briefing, he expressed satisfaction over the cooperation displayed thus far, noting, “Most times in courts, if it’s not criminal, people do their best. Very rarely do you find liars, but you do occasionally.” He affirmed that there have been “no suspicions of lies” among the witnesses.
The inquiry currently accommodates some witnesses who are offering their testimonies virtually due to logistical issues, particularly those unable to travel from countries like New Zealand and Australia. Justice Ashton-Lewis emphasized that their role is to facilitate the collection of evidence, stating, “Some of them can’t afford to fly from New Zealand or Australia, so our job is to get their evidence and to do what we can to assist.”
Senior Barrister Janet Mason, involved in the inquiry, highlighted the need to adjust the timeline for submitting the commission’s report due to the unexpected duration of witness testimonies. She affirmed that ensuring fairness is crucial, especially for individuals who may face prejudicial effects as a result of the inquiry.
Today, a key witness, former President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere, is set to testify in person, marking continued progression in this important investigation. This inquiry aims to dissect the legal and ethical dimensions of Malimali’s appointment against a backdrop of broader governance concerns and the necessity for accountability within Fiji’s political systems.
As this inquiry unfolds, there is a unified optimism that it will promote transparency and trust in governmental procedures, ultimately leading to enhanced governance frameworks that ensure integrity in future public appointments. The engagement of significant political figures in this process underscores a collective commitment to uphold democratic values and restore public confidence in Fiji’s institutions.
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