Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner Barbara Malimali has declined to comment on the dismissal of Kuliniasi Saumi, a key witness in the ongoing Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the validity of her appointment.
When asked about Saumi’s termination, Malimali responded, “We can’t comment on this.”
The dismissal of FICAC’s Head of Investigations was confirmed by COI Senior Counsel Janet Mason, who told local media that Saumi had testified for four days and that his evidence remains admissible.
Mason also raised concerns about the dismissal’s impact on the COI, warning it could deter FICAC staff from testifying for fear of repercussions.
The reason for Saumi’s dismissal remains unclear as COI hearings continue.
Among those still to appear before the COI are Malimali, complainant Alex Forwood, and former Acting Deputy Commissioner Francis Pulewai.
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