Barbara Malimali, the chairperson of the Electoral Commission, has been appointed as the new commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). While her appointment has yet to be officially announced, FICAC has confirmed that staff members have been informed of the change.
FICAC also conducted a raid at the Electoral Commission office on Tuesday, which is connected to a complaint filed against Malimali. Francis Puleiwai, acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, acknowledged that Malimali applied for the position of commissioner but did not succeed in her bid.
“This investigation concerns our inquiry regarding Ms. Barbara Malimali,” Puleiwai stated, refraining from disclosing specifics about the complaint. She clarified that the investigation was the reason for the search at the Electoral Commission office.
Questions directed to the Judicial Services Commission, Attorney-General, and Minister for Justice remained unanswered at the time of reporting. When asked if she had applied for the role of Commissioner, Puleiwai confirmed her application was unsuccessful.
Puleiwai also addressed speculation that FICAC is under pressure from Cabinet Ministers who are currently being investigated, stating, “There is no pressure in terms of having it expedited from the Government, but there are still ongoing investigations.” She noted that some of these matters arise from referrals by the Supervisor of Elections regarding non-disclosure of assets.
According to Section 21 (3) of the Political Parties Act 2013, political parties, candidates, and independent candidates for election to Parliament must disclose to the Registrar complete details of all funds or resources obtained from any source, including the name and address of that source.