A petition calling for the removal of Barbara Malimali from her position as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has collected over 100 signatures. Alexandra Forwood, who launched the petition on change.org, aims to prompt Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to discuss with President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere the termination of Malimali’s appointment.
Forwood alleges that Malimali was appointed under questionable circumstances, stating that she was under investigation by FICAC prior to her assuming the role. Forwood is advocating for Malimali to be charged with alleged abuse of office, asking supporters to sign the petition.
In response to the petition, Malimali expressed that public opinion regarding her appointment is welcome, emphasizing the freedoms present in the country. Forwood’s push for a change in leadership at FICAC is echoed by notable political figures, including former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry and Savenaca Narube, who have criticized Malimali’s appointment and called on Rabuka to address the alleged “abuse of power” tied to FICAC.
A key element of this controversy involves a leaked FICAC letter that details charges against Minister of Finance Biman Prasad. Prasad was expected to face charges two weeks ago for not disclosing all his assets, income, and liabilities before the recent elections, coinciding with Malimali’s new role as FICAC Commissioner. Francis Puleiwai, Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, currently in Australia, referred to the delay in filing charges as “sad.”
Alexandra Forwood is a former resident of Fiji who now resides in Australia. Her adoptive father spent over 40 years working in Fiji and is married to a local iTaukei woman. She has actively voiced her opinions on Fiji’s political matters.