Justice David Ashton-Lewis has praised the honesty of witnesses who have given evidence so far in the Commission of Inquiry into the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of FICAC.
“Most times in courts, if it’s not criminal, people do their best. Very rarely do you find liars, but you do occasionally,” Justice Ashton-Lewis said while addressing the media yesterday.
“There’s no suspicion of lies so far, and so far, everyone has been cooperating well.”
Justice Ashton-Lewis explained that some witnesses are appearing virtually due to logistical challenges.
“Some of them can’t afford to fly from New Zealand or Australia, so our job is to get their evidence and to do what we can to assist.
“Witnesses are just told we’re having this hearing, and they can appear, and then they choose whether to appear in person or virtually.”
Senior Barrister Janet Mason acknowledged that the timeframe for submitting the commission’s report would need to be revised.
“We just didn’t know how long it would take for witnesses.
“His Lordship has been very clear that those people who might suffer prejudice as a result of this inquiry should have enough time to ask their questions. That’s the fair procedure and the fair way to undertake the trial.”
The commission is also set to hear from former President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere in person today.
