The Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the appointment of former Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner Barbara Malimali has reportedly found that the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) allegedly treated former Deputy Commissioner Frances Puleiwai unfairly. Allegations suggest that Puleiwai was coerced into resigning under the threat of unspecified charges.
An unreleased document purporting to be the CoI report is circulating on social media, although its authenticity has not been confirmed. The document reportedly claims that Puleiwai was summoned by the JSC on September 5, 2024. During this meeting, she was allegedly accused of three offenses related to Malimali’s arrest that day. It further suggests that the JSC adopted a punitive stance after Puleiwai informed the President about the need for additional time to conclude the FICAC investigation concerning Malimali.
The document alleges that the JSC did not consider the situation fully and presented Puleiwai with only two options: either resign and receive one month’s salary or respond to the allegations within seven days, after which the JSC would make further recommendations. Notably, the report argues that the JSC lacked the legal authority to prevent future charges from being filed by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), FICAC, or the police simply based on her resignation, as the JSC does not have direct oversight regarding these bodies.
This inquiry adds to the ongoing controversy surrounding former Deputy Commissioner Frances Puleiwai. Recently, Puleiwai publicly expressed her disappointment with how her departure was handled, claiming that the agency she aimed to serve attempted to “victimize” her for fulfilling her duties. She also highlighted concerns about the urgency of Malimali’s appointment while she was still under investigation.
Puleiwai has reiterated the importance of transparency and accountability in the FICAC, asserting that many complications might have been avoided if Malimali’s appointment had been delayed until the investigation reached a conclusion. She has experienced alleged threats since her departure, including an incident involving slashed tires on her vehicle shortly before she left for Australia.
As the situation develops, it opens discussions on governance, transparency, and the rule of law, which are vital for fostering public trust in institutions like FICAC.
Overall, there is a glimmer of hope that with the ongoing inquiries and calls for accountability, Fiji’s justice system can emerge stronger amidst these challenges, fostering trust and integrity moving forward.
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