Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed support for Barbara Malimali to remain in her position as head of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). This comes as the Government works to establish a Commission of Inquiry to investigate allegations made by Francis Puleiwai, the former Deputy Commissioner.
During a media briefing, Rabuka stated that Malimali is free to continue her responsibilities unless she believes her involvement could disrupt the investigation, in which case she might choose to step down. “She is a senior lawyer and should know what is in the best interest of everyone,” he 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’s work. He noted that if the inquiry finds evidence of undue interference, appropriate actions as recommended by the Commission of Inquiry would need to be implemented.
Regarding claims that Puleiwai had faced threats, Rabuka condemned any such actions if they occurred. However, he clarified that he had not received any reports of these threats nor were they conveyed to him or the Fiji Police.