Opposition MP Premila Kumar has expressed her astonishment at the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the new Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), especially in light of ongoing investigations into Malimali for alleged abuse of office. Kumar described the decision by the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) as both “astonishing and unethical,” questioning how the appointment of someone under investigation could be confirmed.
She raised key concerns about whether the JSC was aware of the investigation before making their decision or if they chose to overlook it. Kumar emphasized that this situation undermines the integrity and credibility of the appointment process and expressed doubt about FICAC’s ability to function impartially when its newly appointed head faces serious allegations.
Kumar has called for the Chair of the JSC to provide a thorough explanation regarding the decision-making process for this appointment, suggesting that due diligence may not have been adequately performed. She reiterated that the citizens of Fiji deserve better governance, stressing the need for leadership by individuals with impeccable integrity to maintain public trust in national institutions.