Secrecy Surrounds Fiji’s Malimali Appointment Inquiry

The Commission of Inquiry (COI) into Barbara Malimali’s appointment as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) commenced yesterday in a confidential setting, with media access restricted due to ongoing criminal investigations involving some witnesses.

Janet Mason, a senior legal counsel, clarified that the inquiry needs to maintain confidentiality to protect the integrity of the criminal investigations. Mason emphasized that the primary goal is to determine the “lawfulness” of Malimali’s appointment, signaling the inquiry’s focus on adhering to legal processes.

Mason noted that the findings of the inquiry would not be made public immediately, as the report will first be submitted to the President, who will decide on public disclosure.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka was the first witness to testify, describing the inquiry as a crucial step in understanding the situation surrounding Malimali’s appointment. Rabuka acknowledged the challenging nature of the inquiry but reported that the questions posed were fair and derived from his affidavit.

Inia Seruiratu, the Leader of the Opposition, attended the hearing and expressed his support for the inquiry, emphasizing the importance of transparency and good governance.

Justice David E. Ashton Lewis, a senior Australian judge and current Supreme Court judge in Fiji, remarked on the positive momentum of the inquiry and commended Prime Minister Rabuka for his cooperation. He mentioned that there are currently 34 witnesses, indicating a thorough examination process.

The inquiry is expected to continue in the coming days, with more witnesses scheduled to provide their testimonies.

This inquiry represents a commitment to accountability and integrity within Fiji’s governance structures. As discussions unfold, it can pave the way for improvements in how appointments are made, thereby fostering public trust in governmental processes. With a growing emphasis on transparency, the hope is that the findings of this inquiry will contribute positively to the future of governance in Fiji.