The Judicial Services Commission (JSC) has confirmed Barbara Malimali as the new Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), following her top score in the selection process.
This decision comes despite allegations of abuse of office against her, with the JSC assuring, in a statement issued this hour undersigned by Chairperson of Judicial Services Commission and Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo , that the law will take its course.
Barbara Malimali was the highest-scoring candidate among fifteen applicants, scoring 141 out of 165 points during the interview phase conducted by a panel including Acting CJ Temo and other senior legal figures. Her appointment was finalised by the President of Fiji and took effect on September 5, 2024.
The statement follows significant media scrutiny and mixed public reactions. Some concerns have been raised regarding Malimali’s appointment, notably allegations of abuse of office.
Responding to these concerns, the JSC said, “As of now, she had not been charged and like every citizen of this country, is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in a court of law.”
The Commission also addressed the actions of Francis Puleiwai, the former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC. Puleiwai, who had been filling the role temporarily since November 2023, allegedly overstepped her authority by ordering the arrest of Malimali without a warrant or proper authorisation. Puleiwai resigned from her position on September 5, 2024.
The JSC suggested that Puleiwai’s actions, given her status as an unsuccessful candidate for the Commissioner’s role, made the allegations against Malimali questionable. They reiterated that Malimali, like anyone else, should be presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The Commission also assured the public that the legal process will address the allegations, underscoring the importance of following proper legal procedures.
