Pressure is mounting on the Fijian Government, particularly Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, to promptly establish 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 insist that despite the potential costs and extended timeline, such an inquiry is essential for transparency. Opposition MP Premila Kumar emphasized that the citizens of Fiji are demanding answers and are closely observing the situation. She pointed out that this isn’t the first time the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) has faced scrutiny, referencing last year’s appointment of John Rabuku as acting Director of Public Prosecutions, which was later deemed improper by the Supreme Court.
“Why was Malimali’s appointment expedited, considering she is under investigation?” questioned Ms. Kumar, suggesting that it is fundamentally illogical to promote someone amidst an inquiry.
Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry expressed concerns over the Coalition Government’s apparent indifference towards this situation, despite the Prime Minister’s acknowledgment of a forthcoming Board of Inquiry. Mosese Bulitavu, a G9 crossbencher, praised Mr. Rabuka’s decision to form a Board of Inquiry, noting that the current debate surrounding FICAC is taking place under his leadership and that of several ministers who have publicly defended Ms. Malimali’s role.
“Although FICAC operates independently and the Prime Minister is not directly responsible for it, any controversy will inevitably reflect on the head of Government,” Mr. Bulitavu stated, asserting that an inquiry would help resolve the ongoing issues.
Attempts to contact Ms. Malimali for a statement were unsuccessful as she declined to comment. The Attorney-General Graham Leung and the JSC were also approached for response but did not provide any comments.