Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has stated that Barbara Malimali, the newly appointed Commissioner for the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption, will not be required to step down while investigations are ongoing.
In a media briefing, Rabuka affirmed, “No, she does not need to… It’s got nothing to do with her appointment.” He clarified that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is managing the situation, which is a distinct issue.
“If she did something wrong, she needs to address it,” he added.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has passed Malimali’s investigation file to the Director of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to ensure its completion. This decision emerged after discussions between Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva and Deputy DPP John Rabuku, who is overseeing the case.
“A decision was made that the investigation was incomplete, which led to the referral of the file to the Director of CID with the recommendation to finalize the inquiry,” the statement noted.
The Office of the DPP indicated that further updates will follow once the review is concluded and the investigation file is sent back for additional action.
In terms of context, Malimali is under investigation for alleged abuse of office. FICAC has confirmed that the complaint relates to her conduct during her previous role as Chairperson of the Electoral Commission.