Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has declined to meet with the sole commissioner and counsel of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) concerning the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). This decision follows the COI’s request for a meeting to discuss allegations surrounding Malimali’s appointment.
The COI was established last October with the purpose of evaluating if the appointment process maintained integrity, fairness, and transparency according to legal standards. In response to the COI’s request, Rabuka stated that he does not see the need for a meeting and suggested that any necessary correspondence can go directly to the President’s office. He expressed his willingness to provide funds if required but emphasized that there is no urgency for direct discussions with him.
Janet Mason, the COI counsel, had previously highlighted concerns regarding potential irregularities in Malimali’s appointment, including allegations that she attempted to control evidence presented to the COI. Rabuka has consistently stated his commitment to ensuring the independence of the inquiry, emphasizing that he does not wish to influence its outcomes.
The COI is currently seeking a five-week extension to finalize its report, expected to be concluded by April 11. This inquiry presents a vital opportunity for enhancing governance and accountability in Fiji. There is hope that the investigation will lead to necessary reforms, ultimately fostering a more transparent political landscape and restoring public trust in government institutions. As the inquiry progresses, it has become a symbol of the efforts to promote integrity within Fiji’s public sector.
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