Former Prime Minister and leader of the Fiji Labour Party, Mahendra Chaudhry, has alleged that certain Ministers currently under investigation by FICAC for submitting false declarations to the Registrar of Political Parties and for involvement in corrupt activities are trying to influence the appointment of the FICAC Commissioner.
Chaudhry stated that these Ministers seek to avoid prosecution by attempting to remove the cases from Acting Assistant Commissioner Francis Puleiwai and instead appointing someone of their choosing as the new Commissioner.
He also noted previous reports of interference from Barbara Malimali, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, regarding the Registrar’s decision to notify FICAC about the Ministers. Chaudhry mentioned, “A report concerning Malimali was filed and accepted by FICAC, and we believe it is currently under investigation.”
He expressed concerns over the pressure FICAC, under Puleiwai’s leadership, is facing regarding its inquiries into the Ministers. Chaudhry further revealed that the Fiji Labour Party has been informed that Malimali may be seeking the position of FICAC Commissioner, raising questions about her potential suitability for the role.