COI to Extend Until February
Justice Ashton-Lewis clarified that the COI answer does and will not accept a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ when witnesses give evidence, a substantial explanation is pivotal.
Thursday 09 January 2025 | 07:56
Commission of Inquiry Counsel (COI) Assisting Janet Mason engages (second from left) in conversation with COI sole commissioner Justice David Ashton-Lewis after day three of the hearing at the Old Parliament Complex in Veiuto, Suva on January 8, 2025. Photo: Jone Salusalu
The Commission of Inquiry (COI) established to inquire on the contentious appointment of Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner Barbara Malimali is considering sitting until late next month.
The COI hearing, which began on Monday is scheduled to hear from 35 witnesses for two-weeks.
The report of the COI was expected to be submitted to the President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu by the end of this month.
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Commission’s sole commissioner Justice David Ashton-Lewis said he will be considering seeking an extension for the COI sitting.
“We probably going to have to request the President to extend the date to the end of February,” Justice Ashton-Lewis said.
“We would need another four weeks because we are quite behind in the examination of witnesses.
“Given the importance of this matter, there has to be complete freedom in the examination to ask every questions.”
Justice Ashton-Lewis said that it’s the thorough questioning and length of answers that have dragged the two-week hearing.
On Monday, five witnesses were scheduled to front the COI.
This masthead understands the Prime Minister and chair of the Constitutional Offices Commission Sitiveni Rabuka and Supervisor of Election Ana Mataiciwa were the only witnesses that took the stand.
Justice Ashton-Lewis clarified that the COI answer does and will not accept a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ when witnesses give evidence, a substantial explanation is pivotal.
“They go through cross examination, you gain an idea whether the witnesses are being truthful or not,” Justice Ashton-Lewis said.
“So far, Ms Mason and I are satisfied, all the witnesses are doing their best.”
Justice Ashton-Lewis said 28 have yet to give their evidences.
Feedback: jone.salusalu@fijisun.com.fj
