The Fiji Labour Party (FLP) has demanded that Barbara Malimali resign from her position as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). FLP leader Mahendra Chaudhry stated that her resignation is necessary until the complaints regarding her alleged abuse of office are appropriately addressed by independent and impartial officials.
Chaudhry emphasized that it would be a serious injustice for Malimali to lead FICAC while being under investigation herself. He noted that she was under arrest and being interrogated when her appointment was precociously forwarded.
Additionally, Chaudhry raised concerns about the close relationship between Malimali and Attorney-General Graham Leung, suggesting that despite Leung’s public stance as an impartial observer, he was actively involved in her appointment. He disclosed that Malimali was not an applicant when the FICAC commissioner position was initially advertised in June 2024 but applied when the position was readvertised on July 13.
Attempts to reach Ms. Malimali for comments yesterday were unsuccessful.