Malimali questioned and released by FICAC

Newly appointed FICAC Commissioner, Barbara Malimali was questioned by FICAC this morning.

Malimali was questioned in relation to an allegation of abuse of office, and left the office at about midday today.

When approached for comments, Malimali said she has no comments to make for now.

The office of the Electoral Commission was also searched for documents earlier this week.

Malimali is also the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission.

Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC, Francis Puleiwai confirmed to fijvillage News last night that Malimali is still under investigation by FICAC although she is coming in as the FICAC Commissioner.

Puleiwai also confirms that they are proceeding with the investigation relating to some of the Ministers.

She stresses there has been no undue pressure applied on her to desist from charging a number of Ministers.

Puleiwai says she has not been asked to desist, as of today, and she was just informed yesterday afternoon that Malimali was appointed by the President.

She says the investigation into complaints with FICAC against some of the Ministers are still ongoing.

The FICAC Commissioner’s vacancy was advertised earlier this year and Puleiwai confirms that she had applied for the position.

We have sent questions to Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka and Chair of the Judicial Services Commission, Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo. They are yet to respond.