The recent appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has sparked controversy, highlighting concerns over institutional independence and adherence to due process. This situation has left Prime Minister maintaining a stance of ignorance regarding developments under his administration.
Now in the spotlight is Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Biman Prasad, who faces allegations related to multiple undeclared assets, income, and liabilities. Malimali’s immediate appointment, which some believe aims to obstruct investigations into Prasad, further complicates matters.
Attorney-General Graham Leung has come to Malimali’s defense, suggesting her role at FICAC may be intended to safeguard the interests of those in authority from being held accountable. In a significant development, Acting Deputy Commissioner Francis Pulewai has resigned, stating she could not collaborate with Malimali. She expressed her commitment to upholding the rule of law was her primary motivation and assured that existing investigations concerning Prasad predated her tenure.
Pulewai’s resignation raises questions about FICAC’s integrity, as she expressed hopes for justice to prevail. Prasad responded to her departure by indicating that the issues would be dealt with by the incoming commissioner, asserting that his legal team has effectively managed complaints without merit.
Justice Minister Siromi Turaga has confirmed that Malimali lodged a complaint regarding a FICAC search at the Electoral Commission. On her first day of work on September 5, Malimali was questioned by FICAC investigators but was released shortly after. That same day, Pulewai had alerted Turaga about potential charges against Prasad.
Turaga emphasized that the JSC appointed Malimali, and clarified that she was unaware of the investigations until she started her duties. He criticized the leaking of information related to the case on social media, which he believed compromised confidentiality protocols.
Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica asserted that due process was adhered to, noting the involvement of prominent judges in the JSC, and insisted that the government is dedicated to protecting democracy and ensuring the separation of powers. The People’s Alliance Party had previously pledged to dismantle FICAC within its first 100 days.