Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed support for Barbara Malimali to continue her role as head of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) while the government works on establishing a Commission of Inquiry to investigate allegations made by Francis Puleiwai, the former Deputy Commissioner.
In a recent press briefing, Rabuka stated that Malimali should proceed with her responsibilities unless she feels her involvement could conflict with the investigation, in which case she may choose to step aside.
Rabuka emphasized that as a senior lawyer, Malimali understands the importance of acting in the best interest of the situation. He noted that an independent commission would be more suitable to handle the concerns raised by Puleiwai, particularly accusations of undue ministerial interference in FICAC’s investigations.
The Prime Minister indicated that if the inquiry uncovers evidence of such interference, the appropriate procedures recommended by the Commission of Inquiry would need to be followed.
Regarding allegations that Puleiwai had received threats, Rabuka condemned any such behaviour, asserting that he had not been informed of any threats, nor had they been reported to him or to the Fiji Police.