PM slams COI report leak as police launch probe

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has condemned the leak of the final Commission of lnquiry (COI) report into the appointment of former FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali, calling it "deeply disappointing" and a breach of the process's integrity.

"It is sad, and upsets the standards set and recommended by the commission and approved by His Excellency," Mr Rabuka said.

The leaked report, which surfaced on social media this week, labelled Ms Malimali's appointment as "legally invalid," "ethically reprehensible," and "procedurally corrupted."

It also alleged professional negligence, concealment of facts, and unlawful conduct by senior judicial figures. The report further revealed that Ms Malimali was under active FICAC investigation at the time-something never disclosed publicly.

Following a formal referral from P resident Ratu Willame Katonivere on Tuesday, Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu confirmed that a criminal investigation is now underway.

He said a high-level meeting was held yesterday with FICAC Acting Commissioner Lavi Rokoika, Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime Mesake Waqa, and Director CID SSP Loraini Seru to coordinate efforts.

"We discussed specific areas of investigation to avoid duplication and ensure efficiency," Mr Tudravu said.

He assured the public of a "thorough, independent investigation" by senior CID officers.

The revelations have sparked public and legal concern about the validity of decisions made during Ms Malimali's tenure.

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