Commissioner David Ashton-Lewis provided significant insights regarding the ongoing inquiry, specifically naming a “wannabe prime minister” among nine individuals implicated in the findings presented in the Commission of Inquiry report. His comments were made during an interview on Radio 4CRB in Gold Coast, Australia, and reflect a serious concern about loyalty and integrity in the political landscape.
Ashton-Lewis emphasized that if Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka were to heed his recommendations, the individual in question would be unlikely to secure the role of prime minister. He stated that while this person shows loyalty publicly, their actions contradict this allegiance behind closed doors. Ashton-Lewis’s assertion highlights the complex dynamics of political relationships, where public personas may differ markedly from private intentions.
This revelation comes against the backdrop of an inquiry scrutinizing the appointment process of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). Previous reports have indicated that the inquiry aims to address potential improprieties and enhance accountability within Fiji’s governance structures. Justice Ashton-Lewis has reiterated the importance of ensuring fairness and thoroughness in media reporting related to the inquiry, especially regarding Prime Minister Rabuka’s testimony, which he described as not being a “grilling” but rather a professional exchange.
As the inquiry progresses, hopes remain high that the focus on transparency and integrity will lead to significant reforms in Fiji’s governance. Both the Prime Minister and those involved in the inquiry are committed to navigating these complex issues, fostering a renewed trust in governmental institutions and public appointments. The investigation reflects a collective endeavor to uphold the ethical standards essential for democratic integrity in Fiji.
Leave a comment