A new development has emerged in the ongoing Barbara-gate incident. Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu is urging accountability among senior government officials, including Justice Minister Siromi Turaga, Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption Commissioner Barbara Malimali, and Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku. He believes they should be held to the same standards as the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, Christopher Pryde.
Mr. Pryde was suspended last April following allegations related to a controversial meeting with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum at the residence of the Japanese Ambassador, an incident that has sparked substantial debate regarding transparency and fairness within Fiji’s leadership. The meeting, which allegedly involved Mr. Pryde socializing with Mr. Sayed-Khaiyum, raised issues as an investigation by his office into Mr. Sayed-Khaiyum was ongoing.
Seruiratu’s call for justice shines a spotlight on those in high positions within the justice system. Recently, a photograph of Turaga, Malimali, and Rabuku was posted on the Ministry of Justice’s Facebook page, showing them together at an event welcoming a Japanese delegation at the Grand Pacific Hotel. However, the photo was removed by the time this article went to print.
Turaga is currently involved in an active investigation with FICAC, while Rabuku has reviewed Malimali’s case in consultation with Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva, ultimately referring the matter to the Director of the Criminal Department of Investigation for further inquiry, citing it as ‘incomplete.’
Christopher Pryde, who was dismissed last April for alleged “misbehavior,” was suspended following guidance from the Judicial Services Commission. His suspension was in accordance with Chapter 5, Part A, and Section 112 (4) of the Constitution.
Seruiratu condemned the recent public interactions among Turaga, Malimali, and Rabuku, suggesting that relevant authorities should assess the need for suspensions or a tribunal to uphold the integrity of the justice system. He stressed that the appearance of impartiality is vital, especially given ongoing investigations involving these officials. The comparison to Pryde’s suspension is particularly pressing, as it raises questions about consistency in addressing potential bias or misconduct.
Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry echoed similar concerns, noting the public’s perception following the visible interaction among these officials at the event. He questioned whether the acting Chief Justice and the DPP would take appropriate actions, highlighting Tikoisuva’s power to enforce disciplinary measures.
Attempts to reach Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo for comments on this issue were unsuccessful. Meanwhile, a spokesperson from the Attorney-General’s Office provided context about the recent Japanese delegation’s visit, focusing on enhancing legal and justice relations between the two countries, but did not specifically address inquiries related to the ongoing situation involving the justice officials.