Janet Mason, the attorney involved in the Commission of Inquiry regarding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), has publicly disclosed concerns about her removal from the commission. During a recent press interaction, Mason accused the Fiji Law Society of attempting to oust her from her position, asserting she has been “set up” and that her application for a practicing certificate in Fiji was tampered with.
Mason expressed her serious concerns over the alleged falsification of documents related to her professional application. “I was so concerned about being set up that I went straight to the police,” she stated, confirming that she filed a report with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). She emphasized the gravity of the situation, categorizing it as a serious criminal offense.
After reviewing the documents she submitted to the Legal Practitioners Unit, Mason realized discrepancies between her original application and what was on record. “This time by the Law Society to try and shut the commission down is appalling, but we will continue,” she declared, vowing that such tactics would not succeed.
Mason also rejected claims that she had failed to disclose a pending disciplinary case in New Zealand during her application for a Fiji practicing certificate. “I practice in New Zealand; I have a valid practicing certificate,” she affirmed. Despite undergoing an appeal against a disciplinary tribunal’s findings in New Zealand, Mason insisted that she should be given the benefit of the doubt until the appeal is resolved.
Furthermore, she clarified that, under the provisions of the Commission of Inquiry Act, she is not required to hold a Fiji practicing certificate for her role, although she willingly applied for one to avoid conflicts. “I disclosed fully my New Zealand Law Society case, and the Fiji practicing certificate was granted,” she explained.
This incident unfolds amid broader scrutiny of the FICAC, particularly surrounding the appointment of Barbara Malimali, who was under investigation during her appointment. Concerns have been raised regarding the timing of Malimali’s appointment and the ongoing inquiries into her conduct, reflecting a turbulent period for governance and integrity within the organization.
Amidst these challenges, the unfolding events represent a critical moment for accountability in Fiji’s political landscape. The situation emphasizes the importance of due diligence and transparency in public service appointments, potentially restoring faith in the integrity of Fiji’s institutions.
Summary:
Janet Mason, a lawyer involved in the inquiry concerning Barbara Malimali’s appointment as FICAC commissioner, claimed that the Fiji Law Society attempted to remove her from the commission and that her application was falsified. She has reported these allegations to the police and rejected claims regarding her disclosure on a disciplinary matter in New Zealand. The situation casts a spotlight on governance and accountability in Fiji’s political sphere amid ongoing inquiries into Malimali’s appointment.
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