Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed no concerns regarding Barbara Malimali’s continuation as the head of FICAC, as the government moves to establish a Commission of Inquiry to investigate allegations made by former Deputy Commissioner Francis Puleiwai.
Rabuka stated in a media briefing that Malimali is free to perform her responsibilities, but suggested that she may choose to step down if she believes her presence could impede the investigation. He emphasized that as a senior lawyer, Malimali should be aware of what is best for all parties involved.
The Prime Minister noted that an independent commission would be more equipped to handle the concerns raised by Puleiwai, especially regarding alleged ministerial interference in FICAC’s operations. He mentioned, “If such an inquiry finds that undue interference occurred, the recommended due process from the Commission of Inquiry will need to be executed.”
On the matter of alleged threats against Puleiwai, Rabuka firmly condemned any such behavior if it did occur. However, he clarified that he had not received any information about such threats nor had they been reported to him or to the Fiji Police.