ALL of the rot has been uncovered, says former acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC Francis Puleiwai.
Speaking from New Zealand, Ms Puleiwai said she wanted to return to Fiji and to FICAC to continue the work she had started.
“I have put in my intention to the (Honourable Prime Minister) to return to Fiji today and I am waiting on his response,” Ms Puleiwai said.
“As for Ms (Barbara) Malimali’s suspension and Mr (Lisiate) Fotofili’s appointment being revoked, all I can say is, that is the decision of HE the President through the advice of the Hon PM which is their prerogative and through the findings of His Lordship Justice Lewis and Ms Mason the Counsel assisting.
“I am happy the truth has finally come out.”
She said the PM had reached out to her about the report’s recommendations which offered two options including compensation.
“I have informed the Hon PM that I intend to return and complete the work that I was appointed to do.”
Ms Puleiwai also revealed the challenging few months she faced while being away from her family.
“It has not been easy having to up and leave my young children back at home without them fully understanding what was happening and it was difficult to explain to them as well,” she said.
“However, my babies were strong and knew the hardship we had to face and had to be apart for, so they had to be strong for me.
“It affected them mentally and physically.
“I am so happy that God had us from the beginning and with my family’s support and close friends locally and overseas, we were able to get through this.
“We had no plan nor anticipated this situation, and we endured it because we were fighting for the truth. I am happy and content that through the COI all the rot has been uncovered, and HE the President and the Hon PM are actioning it.
“This is just the beginning of a new direction for Fiji and its people.”
Ms Puleiwai said she also intended to address her concerns over her safety which was one of the reasons she left for Australia late last year.
“We didn’t lodge it with police since by then I was out of the country. Yes, if the plans for me to return is all in order, then that is part of the plan.
“However, the threat I encountered is part of the COI since it was noted in my evidence also, we didn’t want to lodge it to escalate the situation and make the situation worse for my kids and family and we didn’t trust anyone given the situation I was in.”
Questions sent to the Prime Minister about Ms Puleiwai’s intension to return to Fiji remain unanswered.
