Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed his readiness to launch an inquiry into the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).
In an interview today, Rabuka indicated that he is currently examining the relevant regulations and legislation to ascertain the appropriate procedures for establishing a Board of Inquiry. He emphasized that the purpose of this inquiry will be to investigate specific matters related to Malimali’s appointment to the FICAC role.
“Once I have reviewed the legal framework necessary to set this up, I will proceed to call for the inquiry to uncover all those involved in what has now become a challenging situation, including the appointment and the resignation of two key office holders of FICAC,” Rabuka stated.
The Prime Minister also noted that he is not aware of the details contained in the report submitted by Francis Pulewai, who resigned as Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC. He mentioned that the inquiry would also probe allegations of interference in ongoing investigations.
Rabuka additionally remarked on the delays in receiving Malimali’s resignation from her post as Chair of the Electoral Commission, indicating that it may have been sent to him later than expected.
Meanwhile, Acting Commissioner Juki Fong Chew confirmed that FICAC has received an official report regarding alleged abuse of office involving Pulewai.