Key stakeholders involved in the dismissal of former FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali are anticipated to convene in Suva today as the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) evaluates compliance with a recent High Court decision that deemed her removal unlawful.
Tanya Waqanika, Ms. Malimali’s attorney, confirmed the scheduled meeting yesterday. In a previous statement, the JSC expressed its commitment to take “all necessary steps” to address the issues surrounding Ms. Malimali before March 31. This commitment comes after Justice Dane Tuiqereqere ruled that the President’s decision to remove Ms. Malimali at the advice of the Prime Minister was not valid.
Today’s meeting is set to include Ms. Malimali, her lawyer, as well as Solicitor-General Ropate Green representing the State, and Simione Valenitabua, a representative for the Prime Minister. The JSC, in collaboration with Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga, is expected to formulate independent recommendations to the President following the consultations.
Justice Tuiqereqere’s ruling also indicated that the JSC must take into account the appointment of Lavi Rokoika as acting commissioner, highlighting that the court did not possess the jurisdiction to assess the legitimacy of that appointment.
The outcome of today’s meeting could play a pivotal role in reshaping the leadership at FICAC and ensuring that justice is upheld in line with the court’s ruling.
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