The legal proceedings involving former Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner Barbara Malimali have reached a conclusion following the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) advising against further action due to insufficient evidence. Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu made this announcement, confirming that all reports submitted for review, including the file on Malimali, were meticulously examined.
The investigation into the alleged misuse of confidential voter information, stemming from Malimali’s role as the Electoral Chair of the Electoral Commission of Fiji, was initially submitted to the DPP on March 21. Following a thorough evaluation, the DPP returned the case expressing that there was not enough evidence to warrant prosecution.
Commissioner Tudravu stated that all 12 reports concerning public-order cases related to the Commission of Inquiry (COI) have been scrutinized and forwarded to the DPP for independent legal advice. He noted the importance of transparency in dealings with the DPP as they await guidance on the remaining cases.
Malimali’s appointment as the FICAC Commissioner came under scrutiny, resulting in her dismissal following a government-sanctioned inquiry. Findings from the inquiry highlighted procedural irregularities and outlined her alleged involvement in misusing office during her tenure with the Electoral Commission.
Additionally, FICAC has also recently closed several cases referred by the Supervisor of Elections, including allegations against notable political figures for various corrupt practices and false declarations. The Commission reiterated its commitment to maintaining rigorous standards in evaluating complaints and emphasized that it will continue its investigations into ongoing matters. This determination underscores FICAC’s objective of upholding integrity and transparency within Fiji’s political landscape, reinforcing public trust in the governance process.