Former Deputy Commissioner of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), Francis Puleiwai, has been deemed “safe” to return to Fiji, as stated by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
During a press conference held at the Office of the Prime Minister in Suva, Mr. Rabuka addressed concerns regarding Ms. Puleiwai’s safety, labeling them as speculative and emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation to validate her claims.
“It would not come from a Government that I lead,” Mr. Rabuka remarked. “Who is she afraid of? I do not know if any reports have been made to the police. I believe we are safe. If anyone is under the most threat, it’s me—and I have not felt any danger. I wonder why I have so many ‘so-called’ bodyguards following me around.”
The controversy surrounding FICAC stems from the appointment of Barbara Malimali as FICAC chief on September 5, a decision that has faced considerable backlash. The Prime Minister reiterated that Ms. Puleiwai’s allegations have yet to be verified.
“It’s speculation; it has not been confirmed,” he noted. “She is alleging things that have not been substantiated or investigated by authorities.”