Terminating Saumi was an employment issue and not related to COI - Malimali

Another disagreement in relation to the FICAC Commission of Inquiry issue.

FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali says the termination of former FICAC employee and Commission of Inquiry witness, Kuliniasi Saumi was strictly an employment matter and has no connection to the Commission of Inquiry into her appointment.

However, speaking to the media today, Senior Legal Counsel Janet Mason disagrees saying the matter is directly linked to the inquiry.

Mason says Saumi is an important witness and they intend to recall him.

She adds that he needs to access certain documents which has now become an issue for the inquiry.

She says they need to have evidence that is available and relevant.

When asked about the next steps following the Judicial Services Commission’s statement that they do not have the power to suspend Malimali, Mason says they are standing by their position and will wait for the opinion of the King’s Counsel to determine what happens next.

When questioned regarding the cost of hiring a King’s Counsel, Mason says the fees can vary based on the complexity of the case, typically ranging between $15,000 and $20,000.

She says she does not think this matter is too complicated.

Meanwhile, FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali took the stand this morning in the Commission of Inquiry, with the session set to continue in the afternoon.

The Senior Legal Counsel has confirmed that the Commission of Inquiry is expected to conclude next week with a closed session involving some Members of Parliament.