Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has maintained support for calls to make public the Commission of Inquiry’s report into FICAC commissioner Barbara Malimali’s appointment, but he made clear that any action would depend on expert guidance.
Asked what action would be taken if the report revealed misconduct by Cabinet members, the PM was resolute: “All will be dealt with as ‘being equal before the law’.”
The Prime Minister also suggested that from what he has read of the report so far, the findings may not warrant ministerial intervention, but rather action at the officials’ level.
“From what I have read so far, I feel there will be no need for any ministerial action,” Mr Rabuka said. “Most action required will be at officials’ levels.”
The report, which examined allegations of procedural breaches and political interference in Ms Malimali’s appointment, could become a political flashpoint, depending on its findings.
However, Mr Rabuka maintained the Government’s position on transparency.
“In keeping with the Government’s stance on transparency and accountability and the costs involved, I still support the report being made public, but (I) will be guided by advice on jurisprudence considerations.”
Asked what action would be taken if the report revealed misconduct by Cabinet members, Mr Rabuka gave a measured response.
“All will be dealt with as ‘being equal before the law’.”
The Prime Minister confirmed receiving the report on Thursday afternoon following its formal presentation to President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu.
The full contents of the report remain under wraps.
