Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed his support for Barbara Malimali to remain in her role as head of FICAC, as the government seeks to establish a Commission of Inquiry to investigate allegations made by former Deputy Commissioner Francis Puleiwai.
In a media statement, Rabuka indicated that Malimali is free to continue her responsibilities unless she believes her role could interfere with the investigation, in which case she could choose to step down.
“Malimali is an experienced lawyer, and she should understand what serves the best interest of everyone involved,” Rabuka remarked.
The Prime Minister emphasized that an independent commission would be more effective in addressing the concerns raised by Puleiwai, particularly those related to alleged ministerial interference in FICAC investigations.
“If the inquiry finds that there was undue interference, the appropriate actions recommended by the Commission of Inquiry will need to be followed,” he stated.
Regarding the claims that Puleiwai faced threats, Rabuka condemned such behavior, stating that he had not been informed of any threats nor had they been reported to him or to the Fiji Police.