Lynda Tabuya denies involvement in FICAC appointment, clarifies sunglasses were not gifted to Malimali

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Former Minister Lynda Tabuya testified before the Commission of Inquiry that that since the 2022 Elections, she has had no formal interactions with FICAC and no involvement in issues relating to the appointment or conduct of Barbara Malimali as FICAC Commissioner.

Ms Tabuya was questioned on whether she had gifted sunglasses to a mutual friend, who subsequently gave them to Ms. Malimali.

“She stated that this action was not intended as a gift to Ms. Malimali directly and that it occurred prior to the current controversies,” the CoI report states Ms Tabuya as testifying.

“She also denied any role in discussions concerning Ms. Malimali’s appointment, any attempts to influence the appointment outcome, or any intention to interfere with FICAC’s operations.”

“. Tabuya acknowledged that she and Ms. Malimali were friends between 2009 and 2019.”

“She explained that the friendship ended due to personal differences but confirmed that they remained civil in professional settings.”

“Hon. Tabuya stated that she had not had any discussions with Ms. Malimali regarding the latter’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner.”