A new development has emerged in the ongoing Barbara-gate controversy. Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu is urging that prominent government figures, including Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga, Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption Commissioner Barbara Malimali, and Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku, be held to the same scrutiny as suspended Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde.
Pryde was suspended last April following allegations of an inappropriate meeting with former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, which raised significant concerns about transparency and fairness within Fiji’s leadership. This meeting allegedly took place at the residence of the Japanese Ambassador.
Seruiratu’s calls for accountability come as attention increasingly focuses on high-ranking officials within the justice system. Recently, a photo featuring Turaga, Malimali, and Rabuku at an event hosted for a Japanese delegation was posted on the Ministry of Justice’s Facebook page but was removed shortly before this edition went to print.
Turaga is currently facing an investigation with FICAC, while Rabuku has reviewed Malimali’s case, finding it incomplete and requiring further police investigation. Rabuku’s office referred the matter to the Criminal Investigation Department.
Meanwhile, Christopher Pryde’s suspension stemmed from allegations of “misbehaviour.” President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere acted on the recommendation of the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) to suspend him, in accordance with the Constitution.
Seruiratu has criticized the recent public appearance of the trio and suggested that the relevant authorities should consider whether suspensions or a tribunal are necessary to preserve the credibility of the justice system. He stressed the importance of public perception regarding impartiality, especially in the context of ongoing investigations involving high-ranking officials.
Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry echoed these sentiments, questioning the actions of the JSC and whether DPP Nancy Tikoisuva would act to maintain the integrity of her office. He reminded that Tikoisuva holds constitutional authority to impose disciplinary measures against any DPP officer.
This news outlet attempted to reach Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and JSC Chair Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo for comment but did not receive a response before press time. Inquiries to the Attorney-General’s Office regarding the controversial situation were met with a statement about a visiting Japanese delegation, emphasizing the constructive nature of the visit focused on law and justice in Fiji.