Government will not appeal High Court ruling on Malimali’s termination

The Government has decided it will not appeal a High Court ruling on the termination of Barbara Malimali.

In a statement released tonight, the Government said the decision was made following due and deliberate consideration, legal advice and further consultations with His Excellency the President.

The Government acknowledged the ruling delivered by the High Court and expressed its appreciation to the Judiciary for what it described as the careful and independent adjudication of the matter.

While the decision that was the subject of judicial review was made on the basis of legal advice provided by a King’s Counsel, the Government said it fully respects the ruling of the Court.

The Government said the ruling underscored the role of the Judiciary in upholding justice and ensuring fairness, and reflected the strength of Fiji’s legal framework, including the separation of powers and judicial independence.

It said it respected the constitutional mandate of the Judicial Services Commission to deliberate on the matter and bring it to its conclusion.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka reiterated the Government’s confidence in Fiji’s democratic institutions and its commitment to the rule of law, constitutional processes, accountability, judicial independence and the separation of powers.