The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has urged the public to respect the ongoing investigation into the appointment of its Commissioner.
In a statement, FICAC reiterated the importance of allowing the Commission of Inquiry (COI) to carry out its work without interference, calling on the public, especially those in positions of authority, to avoid a “trial by media,” saying that such matters should be handled through appropriate channels.
FICAC’s Commissioner Barbara Malimali has chosen not to comment, stating that it would be inappropriate to speak while the investigation is ongoing.
“FICAC is functioning more efficiently than ever before, [and] is fully committed to its mandate of combating corruption and upholding the rule of law, with no disruption to its ongoing work,” FICAC said, urging the public to allow the COI to do its job without added pressure.
Established two months ago, the COI is led by Justice David E. Ashton-Lewis, SC, a senior Australian jurist and Supreme Court judge in Fiji, and senior barrister Janet Mason, who holds both New Zealand and Fijian citizenship and is admitted to the Bars of both countries.
However, Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu insists on Malimali’s immediate suspension to allow investigations into allegations of abuse of office, witness intimidation, and the recent break-in at the FICAC office.
Seruiratu argued that these issues must be investigated independently by the relevant authorities and said that Malimali’s continued position as Commissioner was unacceptable.
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