Minister of Justice Siromi Turaga has sparked controversy within the Coalition Government after referring to the media’s coverage of the FICAC (Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption) issue as an “obsession.”
During a recent parliamentary session, Mr. Turaga was asked for his thoughts on the ongoing FICAC controversy. He responded sharply, stating, “What’s this obsession with this FICAC controversy?” and dismissed allegations of any ministerial interference.
FICAC has been in the spotlight for months due to the appointment of its commissioner, Barbara Malimali, who was under investigation by the agency at the time of her appointment. Ms. Malimali was appointed by President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere following a recommendation from the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) in consultation with government legal advisor Graham Leung. Both entities have defended the legitimacy of Malimali’s appointment process.
Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has openly criticized Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for his failure to address the situation promptly.
Today, the Cabinet is set to discuss an agenda related to the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry (COI) to investigate the inconsistencies surrounding the FICAC saga during its meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister.