Leung’s Controversial Clarification: What Does It Mean for Fiji’s Political Integrity?

Former Attorney-General Graham Leung has clarified his involvement in the appointment process of Barbara Malimali as the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner. He asserts that he did not communicate with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka prior to the appointment, emphasizing that the decision was solely handled by the Judicial Services Commission (JSC). His role was consultative according to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption Act of 2007, which requires the Attorney-General to be consulted but does not necessitate providing approval.

Following the release of the Ashton Lewis Commission of Inquiry report, which led to his dismissal, Leung has expressed his intention not to challenge the Prime Minister’s decision in court. However, he vehemently rejects the findings of the report, which he deems as unfair and lacking substantiation, largely based on hearsay. He questions whether the inquiry’s procedures upheld fairness and due process, particularly for those implicated without proper opportunity to respond.

Leung stated that he was comfortable with the Prime Minister’s constitutional powers but raised concerns about the potential climate of suspicion this inquiry could create within the government. He highlighted that he did not write any notes endorsing Malimali’s candidacy and had signed off on her recommendation without any indication of irregularity.

Additionally, he noted a significant flaw in not having received an official copy of the report, leaving him to rely on leaked excerpts, which challenges the integrity of the inquiry process and raises questions about justice for individuals named in the report. Leung’s case signals a pivotal moment in Fiji’s governance, with hope that it may lead to necessary reforms and enhance accountability standards within public offices.

This situation embodies the ongoing challenges within the governance framework of Fiji but also represents an opportunity for fostering greater integrity, transparency, and trust within its political landscape. As scrutiny over public appointments continues, there is a hopeful outlook for strengthening ethical governance practices in Fiji moving forward.