The Commission of Inquiry (COI) regarding Barbara Malimali’s appointment as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) commenced yesterday in a closed setting, with media representatives prohibited from attending. Legal counsel Janet Mason provided insight into the confidentiality of the proceedings, noting involvement of ongoing criminal investigations concerning several witnesses.
Mason highlighted that the inquiry is focused primarily on assessing the “lawfulness” of Malimali’s appointment. She explained that while criminal charges typically precede civil inquiries, this investigation is being expedited due to uncertainties surrounding the appointment process. Additionally, she confirmed that the results of the inquiry would not be immediately accessible to the public, as the report must first be submitted to the President, who decides on its release.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka took the stand as the first witness, endorsing the process as crucial for revealing the truth, and described the questioning as routine based on his affidavit. Inia Seruiratu, the Leader of the Opposition, attended as an observer and expressed his support for the inquiry, emphasizing the importance of transparency in governance.
Justice David E. Ashton Lewis, a senior Australian jurist and Supreme Court Judge in Fiji, characterized the initial day of the inquiry as positive, commending Prime Minister Rabuka’s cooperation. With 34 witnesses set to participate, the inquiry is expected to move forward with more testimonies in the upcoming days.
This inquiry represents a significant step toward ensuring accountability in Fiji’s governance structures, ultimately aiming to restore public trust. The rigorous examination of appointments within governmental bodies suggests a commitment to upholding integrity and transparency, which is essential for democratic processes.
Summary: The COI into Barbara Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner starts behind closed doors, focusing on the lawfulness of her appointment. Key figures, including PM Sitiveni Rabuka and Justice Lewis, highlight the importance of the inquiry for accountability and transparency in governance.
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