Maharaj Calls on PM Rabuka to Resign After Government Drops Malimali Appeal

Opposition MP Alvick Maharaj is calling on Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to resign after the Government decided not to proceed with its appeal against the High Court ruling on the removal of former FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali.

Maharaj said the Government’s decision not to proceed with an appeal effectively accepts the High Court’s findings that the dismissal was unlawful and unconstitutional, and described the development as a defining moment for Fiji’s democracy.

He pointed to earlier remarks by the Prime Minister indicating that resignation was an option if the legal process failed to support the Government’s position.

Maharaj argues that by discontinuing the appeal, the Government has conceded the matter and that the Prime Minister should now honour his earlier comments.

Maharaj said the Prime Minister personally advised the President in relation to the removal decision and therefore bears direct responsibility for what the court found to be an overreach of executive authority.

According to the statement, stepping down would demonstrate respect for the Constitution and reinforce the principle that public office holders are accountable to the law. Maharaj added that such a move would help restore public trust and uphold the integrity of national institutions.

He described resignation as the “honourable path forward,” saying leadership must be defined by accountability and adherence to constitutional limits.