Opposition MP Premila Kumar expressed her shock over the appointment of Electoral Commission Chairperson Barbara Malimali to the new Commission of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). In her statement, Kumar branded the decision as both astonishing and unethical, particularly given that Malimali is currently under investigation by the very organization she is about to lead.
Kumar raised critical questions regarding the Judicial Services Commission’s (JSC) awareness of the ongoing investigations and whether they consciously chose to overlook them. She highlighted the potential impact on the integrity and credibility of the appointment process.
“How can the public trust FICAC to perform its mandate impartially when its leader is associated with such severe allegations?” Kumar asked, emphasizing that the public expects transparency and accountability from those in powerful positions.
The Opposition MP has called for a comprehensive explanation from the Chair of the Judicial Services Commission regarding the decision-making process and the apparent lack of due diligence in this significant appointment. She stressed that the people of Fiji deserve more, insisting that those in authority prioritize the nation’s best interests and ensure that its institutions are steered by individuals of unwavering integrity.