Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu has called for the removal of FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali.
In a statement, Mr Seruiratu expressed deep concern over the serious allegations made by Supervisor of Elections Ana Mataiciwa against Ms Malimali.
According to police, Ms Mataiciwa made a report against Ms Malimali regarding abuse of office, intimidation and harassment of witnesses.
“In light of these serious allegations, Barbara Malimali must resign or be suspended until the investigation is over,” said Mr Seruiratu.
“This is the only way to ensure transparency and that the public has confidence in our institutions.
“We must maintain the highest standards of accountability and integrity, especially in matters of public interest.”
He said the people of Fiji deserved nothing less.
“How can someone who is supposed to be the top anti-corruption official in Fiji hold this position when there are allegations of this nature against her?
“It is no longer a matter of her doing the right thing but of the JSC (Judicial Services Commission), as the appointing body of the Commissioner of FICAC, doing the right thing and removing her from office so that the already damaged reputation of FICAC and the JSC is salvaged. In fact, if the JSC refuses to act, questions will only be raised whether the JSC itself has been compromised and call for an investigation deeper into the JSC itself.”
