Opposition Member of Parliament Premila Kumar has expressed her shock at the appointment of Electoral Commission Chairperson Barbara Malimali to the new Commission of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). In a statement, Kumar described the move as both astonishing and unethical, noting that the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) confirmed the appointment of someone who is currently under investigation by the very organization she is set to lead.
Kumar questioned whether the JSC was unaware of the ongoing investigations or if they chose to overlook them. She highlighted that this decision raises significant concerns regarding the integrity and credibility of the appointment process.
She further emphasized that the public’s confidence in FICAC’s ability to operate impartially is compromised when its leader is linked to serious allegations. Kumar insisted that the public deserves transparency and accountability from those in positions of power.
The Opposition MP has called for a full explanation from the Chair of the Judicial Services Commission regarding how this decision was reached and why it appears that proper due diligence was not conducted. She argued that the people of Fiji deserve better, urging those in authority to prioritize the nation’s best interests and ensure that institutions are led by individuals with unquestionable integrity.
FijiLive has also sought comments from the Chairperson of the Judicial Services Commission, Justice Salesi Temo.