Opposition Demands Transparency and Rule of Law Amid FICAC COI Fallout

Opposition Member of Parliament Alvick Maharaj has expressed grave concern over the government’s handling of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the appointment of former Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner Barbara Malimali, calling for full transparency and adherence to constitutional processes.

In a strongly worded statement, Maharaj said recent government decisions—such as the revocation of Malimali’s appointment and the dismissal of Attorney-General Graham Leung—have only deepened public uncertainty.

“While acknowledging the government’s recent actions, I must emphasize that true accountability and a return to constitutional integrity demand full transparency and adherence to due process,” Maharaj said.

He accused the government of “a masterclass in obfuscation and a blatant disregard for the foundational principles of good governance,” adding that the piecemeal announcements and selective application of the COI findings have created more confusion than clarity.

Maharaj called for the immediate and unredacted public release of the full COI report.

“This report was funded by the Fijian people, and they have an undeniable right to know its full contents, the evidence presented, and the recommendations made,” he said. “Transparency is not an option; it is a fundamental pillar of our democracy. Without it, public trust is eroded, and speculation flourishes.”