THE Opposition has called on the Government to release the full Commission of Inquiry (COI) report into Barbara Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Commissioner.
In a statement, Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu stressed the importance of transparency and accountability, urging the Government to act swiftly and place the report in the public domain.
“Transparency is the bedrock of our democratic system, and every citizen deserves unfettered access to the facts that shape our collective governance,” Mr Seruiratu said.
He warned that withholding the report could erode public trust and hinder national progress.
“Withholding such a report not only undermines public trust but also obstructs our national progress towards informed accountability.”
Mr Seruiratu said the release of the report would serve as a crucial step in reinforcing public confidence, especially ahead of proposed legislative reforms such as the Code of Conduct Bill and the Transparency Bill.
“This is a pivotal moment for the Government to demonstrate that its commitment to openness is genuine and far more than mere rhetoric.”
He added that publishing the report would signal that forthcoming reforms are underpinned by a genuine dedication to transparency and integrity.
Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry also said that “if the Prime Minister is sincere in wanting to cleanse his government of all the rot and the self-serving elements that have brought it into disrepute, he must release the COI report and act on its key recommendations.”
He said the PM and his team have had two weeks to unravel the 400-page report and all the legalese therein.
“He needs to tell the expectant nation what exactly is happening in relation to it.”
