Pressure is mounting on the Government, particularly Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, to swiftly launch an independent Board of Inquiry regarding the contentious appointment of Barbara Malimali as the new Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).
Political analysts stress that while the inquiry may be both costly and time-consuming, it is essential for transparency. There is a growing demand for answers from the people of Fiji, as highlighted by Premila Kumar, the sole female member of the Opposition in Parliament.
Kumar noted that this is not the first instance where the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) has faced scrutiny. She recalled how last year, John Rabuku was appointed as acting Director of Public Prosecutions, only to be later deemed ineligible for the position by the Supreme Court.
“Why was Malimali’s appointment rushed, especially when there was widespread awareness of her ongoing investigation?” Kumar questioned, emphasizing that common sense suggests individuals under scrutiny should not be appointed to such significant positions.
Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry expressed concern over the Coalition Government’s perceived negligence regarding this issue, despite Rabuka’s announcement to pursue a Board of Inquiry. However, G9 crossbencher Mosese Bulitavu praised the Prime Minister’s initiative, noting that the ongoing FICAC debate is occurring under Rabuka’s leadership and that several ministers, including the Attorney-General, had defended Malimali’s appointment.
Bulitavu remarked that although FICAC operates as an independent entity and is not overseen by the Prime Minister, public perception often links the Prime Minister to such controversies. He believes that a Board of Inquiry would help bring clarity to the situation.
Malimali was approached for a comment but declined, stating, “I’m sorry, I actually don’t have anything to say right now, I’m sorry, I can’t answer any questions right now, I have to go.” Attempts to reach Attorney-General Graham Leung and the JSC for comments were unsuccessful.