It is easily the most audacious attempt to fleece the taxpayer in the broad sweep of Fijian history – the corrupt Barbara Malimali and her lawyer, Tanya Waqanika, trying to extract $2-million dollars in compensation from the state for Malimali’s dismissal as FICAC Commissioner.
As we reported yesterday, the Ashton-Lewis Commission of Inquiry has accused Barbara Malimali of 17 counts of criminal conduct and Grubsheet understands she is currently under investigation by the police and FICAC. The “possible offences” the COI lists are abuse of office (three counts), making a false statutory declaration (seven counts), perjury (two counts), forgery, violating the electoral laws, witness tampering, false representation and perverting the course of justice.
If Malimali is charged and convicted, it is enough to put her behind bars for a very long time. But get this, Fiji. Barbie and Tanya are accusing the Supreme Court Judge, Justice David Ashton-Lewis, of having defamed her by calling her corrupt. They want you – the Fijian taxpayer – to pay her $2-milion in compensation. And, equally incredibly, for the Judge to apologise.
For God’s sake, this is a person against whom adverse findings have been made by the Fijian equivalent of a royal commission and who is under active criminal investigation. But also get this, Fiji. The Coalition government is actually considering paying out the $2-million. Negotiations are taking place on a settlement between Tanya Waqanika and the Office of the Attorney General.
Since when has someone under criminal investigation been entitled to a state payout for damage to reputation? Was the hapless Kishore Kumar entitled to a $2-million payout because his reputation was damaged when Lenora Qereqeretabua launched court action against him for falsely claiming that she had starred in a pornographic video?
Seriously, what’s the difference? And yet unless there is an almighty stink in the court of public opinion about this preposterous proposed payout (PPP?), it looks very much as if Barbara Malimali is going to score an astonishing windfall at the nation’s expense.
Incredibly, a gormless and compliant mainstream media in Fiji isn’t questioning Tanya Waqanika’s narrative of how a big, bad judge has damaged the reputation of a good woman so badly that he has ruined her prospects of gaining work and that every other Fijian has to come to her rescue.
The problem is that the Coalition has withheld Chapter 7 of the COI Report that details the possible offences committed by those who have received adverse findings. Yet only the most lazy and negligent journalist cannot readily access this information from Grubsheet or any number of other sources.
Here it is again for those of you who haven’t already perused it. It was why Barbara Malimali was sacked by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister when it was also revealed that her appointment was unlawful in the first place. Please take the time to examine the potential charges and decide for yourself whether Malimali deserves $2-million of your money.
Got that, Fiji? Everything that has happened to Barbara Malimali is self-inflicted. She has brought it upon herself. She isn’t a victim who deserves compensation from the public teat but someone accused of grave wrongdoing who must be brought to account.
Now get this: Those 17 counts of alleged criminal conduct are all you seemingly have to do under the Coalition government to make a $2-million withdrawal from the nation’s coffers. Get a Supreme Court Judge to make a series of findings against you then scream long and loud that your reputation has been damaged and you deserve to be compensated. And guess what? Our politicians don’t hold the line. They start talking terms.
The place has gone completely mad. But here’s the thing, Fiji.
If the Acting Attorney General , Siromi Turaga, the Solicitor General, Ropate Green Lomavatu, , the Finance Minister, Biman Prasad, the Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, or anyone else signs off on ANY payout to Barbara Malimali – let alone $2-million – here’s what you can do:
File an official complaint with FICAC about alleged corrupt conduct on their part in misusing public funds and the corruption watchdog has no choice but to investigate it. Do the same with the police. And if a trickle of complaints turns into a flood – and the Coalition comes under intense political pressure – maybe it will be enough to bring these people to their senses.
And then when the 2026 election comes around, turn it into a tsunami, Fiji – a tidal wave that sweeps these maniacs out of office. Because that’s what they deserve.
POSTSCRIPT:
Seriously, Fiji. Climate change is no longer the greatest threat to our way of life. It’s the conduct of our politicians, including Biman Prasad, and the corruption of our institutions of state.
Plus certain members of the supposed “intelligentsia” who have taken leave of their senses and have become enablers of those members of the elite who are destroying the nation from within.
Sadhana Sen – the academic and policy wonk – doesn’t mention yours truly, presumably because I am not causing her nearly enough stress.
But for targeting the critics – those who want a genuinely better outcome for the nation and an end to the corruption of our institutions – shame on her and all enablers of the misconduct that is sapping the life force out of Fiji.
Those in the “meddling diaspora” care as much about the nation’s future than anyone who lives in Fiji and have as much right as Sadhana Sen to comment on its affairs. And maybe we wouldn’t be so vocal if the local intelligentsia and a supine mainstream media had the courage to call out the blatant wrongdoing that has been identified in the COI Report but is being ignored.
The curse of Grubsheet on Sadhana Sen and the rest of the intellectual elite who sit on their hands while others do the heavy lifting and put their reputations on the line. They are the real “shitheads”, make no mistake about that.
All these people deserve to be in jail. From government ministers to Malimali, the whole lot of them.
There will come a day when we will see this filthy corrupt lot behind bars.
When I read this in the news, I was wondering why are they thrashing out a deal when there are legitimate reasons she was dismissed.
This government has gone bonkers.
GD
My law is a bit rusty, but in my opinion and from the CoI findings, BM must not receive a cent based on my reasoning. I suspect her arguments could be that her dismissal was a breach of contract. Her contract of employment is not in the public domain so we really don’t know what her particularised complaints are. For the avoidance of doubt, she could also argue that her summary dismissal could potentially come under either a “wrongful dismissal” or an “unfair dismissal” under the terms of her employment contract.
The government should fight the case on the basis that BM’s summary dismissal could well have been “unfair”, but in light of those very serious allegations made against her in the CoI’s report, that even if a proper procedure was followed she would be summarily dismissed anyway. Therefore, under those circumstances her dismissal was reasonable and fair and she does not deserve any compensatory awards for current or future loss of earnings.
Graham, the itaukei are special. Judging from social media posts, they lack perspective and appear supportive of the anti- COI narrative. There is a very shallow perspective on issues and the bula smiles are superficial. The common itaukei are so busy protecting their land that the systemic rot caused by their brothers and sisters are seen from the lens of ‘other races trying to suppress itaukei progress ‘. There is very crude narrative to this effect everywhere.
Heck, there just doesn’t seem any empathy for a man hospitalised who managed Fiji well during covid times. I thought Fijians were humble and lived on the teachings of the bible 🙃
I think it is only a matter of time before there is infighting among itaukei, similar to Solomon Islands in the past. This civil war will further plunge Fiji into the perils of domestic instability.
Non itaukei should look at leaving for greener pastured if they can and when the government can supply the passports. After all, as individuals we all want personal security, safety and prosperity for ourselves and our families…something Fiji can no longer guarantee for its non itaukei citizens.
The amount of hate speech regarding A.S.K is appalling. However they would glorify Rabaku and treasonous chiefs.
All the uncuts should just pack up and leave for NZ or Australia, Fiji is on track to becoming a hellhole. The burning of the temple should be a clear sign of things to come.
In considering the government’s proposal of a $2 million out-of-court settlement to Barbara Malimali for her removal as Commissioner of Fiji’s anti-corruption commission, it is important to reflect on what true courage and commitment to justice look like, and how far Malimali falls short in comparison.
Francesca Albanese, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian Territory occupied since 1967, exemplifies genuine bravery and unwavering integrity. Despite facing intense pressure and hostility, she has consistently spoken uncomfortable truths and demanded accountability for grave injustices, including allegations of serious human rights violations. Her refusal to be silenced, even under threat and sanction, demonstrates a rare moral clarity and steadfast dedication to the principles of human rights and international law. Albanese’s actions and sacrifices underscore the kind of courage and ethical commitment expected of those in positions of responsibility.
Barbara Malimali, in stark contrast, has shown no comparable courage or integrity during her time as Commissioner. She has not stood up for high principles of justice nor challenged powerful interests. Instead, her tenure is marked by the sudden cancellation of prosecutions, particularly those involving wealthy and influential politicians who supported her rapid appointment. Rather than advancing anti-corruption efforts, her actions have undermined their very purpose, protecting the privileged rather than holding them accountable.
The government’s offer of a large financial settlement to Malimali is a disgrace and a mockery of the values FICAC is meant to uphold. It dishonors those public servants who genuinely risk their reputations and safety to fight corruption and injustice.
Malimali’s departure is not a loss but a necessary correction. She deserves no reward for a record defined by expedience, submission to power, and failure to act when it mattered most.
This settlement sends a disturbing message that neither courage nor principle holds value within Fiji’s anti-corruption framework. Malimali’s removal is long overdue, and the idea of compensating her so generously is nothing short of a sick joke.
Beyond logic. This situation is shocking and raises serious doubts about whether basic legal principles are understood. The court should reject this con on public policy grounds, as allowing it would damage the credibility of the legal system—especially when it involves a public appointment.Perhaps an explanation in layman terms may be expressed as; The claimant has no right to sue because their appointment was invalid from the start—due to unlawful conduct and unresolved disciplinary issues. Their claim is rooted in illegality and goes against public policy, so it cannot stand.
The revelation that the State is negotiating a $2 million payout with former FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali is nothing short of outrageous. This is not just a question of fairness—it’s a damning reflection of institutional failure, poor judgment, and political convenience.
Let’s be clear: Malimali faces seventeen allegations, and yet taxpayers may be forced to compensate her for “unfair dismissal” and so-called “reputational damage.” But has a court of law even ruled on the legality of her dismissal? Or is this a backroom escape hatch for state lawyers and prosecutors who are unwilling—or unqualified—to mount a credible defense?
The claim of reputational damage is especially galling. What reputation is being damaged here? Malimali’s public image was already deeply compromised before her appointment. The Tuvalu incident alone should have disqualified her from holding any senior public office, let alone a role as sensitive as FICAC Commissioner.
The Commission of Inquiry (COI) was clear: her appointment was irregular, riddled with political favouritism and procedural failure. That alone should allow any compensation claim. In fact, her appointment should never have been made in the first place.
Yet here we are, watching a $2 million negotiation unfold—not in a courtroom, but in the shadows—while key figures involved, many of whom were criticized in the very same COI report, remain in positions of influence. It’s a gross conflict of interest and a sign of how far our institutions have drifted from accountability.
Meanwhile, this payout saga is dominating headlines more than the national budget.
This case is not about justice for Malimali. It’s about failure—of process, of judgment, and of political will.
We forget the acting attorney general is an absolutely disgusting baboon.
Each and every one of these chimpanzees and baboons and Sona Rolex is there to protect each other, pay off each other, and use the baimaan bandar to rob the treasury.
The entire country, especially the minority taxpayers, are suffering the consequences of the change the 45% of the idiots clamoured for.
People thought they knew which side their bread was buttered on, except they can no longer afford to buy butter.
It is absolutely disgusting that the Attorney General would even entertain the idea of paying out Barbara Malimali, when the Commission of Inquiry exposed the criminal justice system — including her — as complicit in systemic corruption.
This isn’t just tone-deaf; it’s an insult to every Fijian who demands accountability.
Self delusional at its best.
Perhaps both Barbie and Tan want that $2 million so they can order Ozempic to help in their weight loss.
Good timing too they know since it’s National Budget time they know somewhere there in the surplus Biman would be hiding some $million for this payout
She’s saying if govt can afford an extra $1.7 million to pay for those extra ministers so my $2 million claim is nothing in that context.
The police should expedite their investigation into her as to who authorised FICAC money, which is public money, to pay for Tanya Waqaniika’s fees to defend Barb in what is essentially a private issue.
The central question here is – was she protecting the public at all times in all her conduct given that she is supposed to be a lawyer?
Isa Viti..things are pilling up in the millions – the $2 million cost of the COI, Bainimarama’s claim of millions on his pension for doing nothing but carnage on the nation, now the $2 million for Barb and Tan’s Ozempic Wegovy and Mounjaro injections and all weight loss treatments on the face of the earth ..
Make a movie on this and call it ” An Island Desperately Calling ”
Don’t tell me it is Charlie Charters who has poked the Fiji Law Society to urge Ms Tan to take this up as a case or test case or whatever. Over to you GS. Over to you GD.
This has all to do not only with incompetence in the judiciary and those charged with upholding the law, it has to do with a complete disrespect for the COI findings of a vulagi Commissioner.
You will find that the vast majority of iTaukei do not give a shit about these findings. Ask the iTaukei on the street. I have. The mindset is, “we have taken charge from the vulagi after 16 years and we are not letting go, whatever the cost”. That is the reality.
Nonsense. Many i’taukei are outraged by this backroom deal.
A true Kai India talking.
Why shoukd we i’taukei surrender to these uncircumcised idol-worshippers when it comes to equal citizenship?
If they don’t show respect,then they should go back to their motherland to bathe in the Ganga!
You’re the one on the “Ganga”. Why don’t you go back into the trees?
How far will we fall as a nation? Corruption at its peak.
What is Fiji Law Society’s stance on this? Oh well, we all know why they are quiet.
Our media is in a shambles, the opposition is weak, and anyone who dares to speak up in the public domain is ridiculed. So the good ones are just keeping mum.
Let’s look at it this way… If Barbara Malimali opens her mouth, then some very very powerful people are going to jail on the same charges that landed Frank and Qiliho in jail- abuse of office.
Now if they get to settle with $2m, it will be a nail in their coffin, because no way will they be allowed to use public money as if it’s their “father’s money”.
We will lodge a complaint. You lot just wait. We need to rid Fiji of leeches parading themselves as saviours of the nation while they cant even given a COLA to poverty stricken citizens.
Bula GD, what about the case of former solicitor general? He was unlawfully removed from office by kai. He challenged it in court, waited for years.
Didn’t the court decide that his removal was unconstitutional and awarded him compensation. Why has he not been paid? Why is the State not moving with similar speed and why not pay him and clear his case? He won against everyone and cleared his name. Why the delay with just him when so many others who don’t deserve it are being paid?
Simple. Because he is Kai Idia and they are iTaukei.
Oil and water dont mix
Jiloma
You know ga what to do with oil. Jiloma
Clearly, this is ransom money for her to go quietly. Don’t expect the Law Society or other legal person to point out the correct process because they’re all compromised.
Hopefully, when this mob is one day ousted, then there will be revenge court proceedings by the new mob. A vicious cycle in Fiji.
What a shame ! Thieving racist, fat and ugly women Tanya and Barbara. Bringing disrepute to lawyers and women in general !
Kocokoco vakasisila o Kemudrau!!! Neuneu!!!
My worry is does the Govt have surplus $2million…lol
Oh well they good at kerekere so anything is possible.
I agree with you GD, the country has gone mad, No, we are ruled by mad men. The government’s compensation talks with disgraced ex-FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali appear part of a broader scheme to undermine trust in state institutions and fuel a seditious campaign aimed at subverting the 2013 Constitution. Some of the related and planned activities include planned protests led by Niko Nawaikula and US resident Sireli Vesikula across Suva to extend to other provincial capitals,
These actions are linked closely to the Great Council of Chiefs’ outright rejection of the Constitution. A key behind the scenes player is Ratu Suliano Matanitobua, Tui Namosi and deputy Chair of the Great Council of Chiefs, who holds secret meetings and rallies chiefly support, intensifying agitation from radical taukei elites.
Misinformation spread by “bush lawyers” like Sekove Maiseka—claiming villages can breed Blue Fin tuna, a cold water species, and falsely calling for land returns while ignoring historic land claim investigations in the 1880s that denied two-thirds of claims fuel grievances and distrust.
Adding to the instability is last week’s vandalising of the Shiv Mandir in Samabula, where sacred idols were smashed, inflaming ethnic tensions and undermining social cohesion.
Together, these incidents form a troubling pattern of sedition aimed at destabilizing Fiji’s constitutional order. The Fiji Military and state institutions must act swiftly to uphold law and order before this escalates into full-scale insurrection.
All is good in Fiji.
Only Khaiyums team of losers are sucking around.
Nothing will work now.
Country is redeemed back to Itaukei.
For last 16 years it was ruled by dogs.
MS SEN shouldn’t ditch the diaspora especially with her history with overseas diaspora men and women – also her Facebook friends explain her outburst – Nitya Reddy, Biman Prasad, Ragni Prasad, Agni Deo, Bharat Jamnadas etc – F#@> off into your hole and stop preaching crap to defend your corrupt mates.
S Sen : Mirror mirror on the wall, whose the purest of them all?
Mirror : Not you Sadhana
S Sen : What, Why?
Mirror : where do I start, the name list is too long…
Oh for F**K sake…the HIPPO is claiming reputational damage, defamation of character and asking for apologies on top of the $2m.
What reputation and good character is this bitch talking about. It’s common knowledge among the legal fraternity how incompetent this HIPPO is and how this drunkard is basically like a public park – anyone can walk in, enjoy and leave. She’s a desperate primate who will sleep with anyone to get to the top or get results in her favour. Case in point…the Tuvalu scandal.
The street dogs have more discipline and reputation than this inbred cow.
Well, if this shifty govt does give her the $2m compensation, the HIPPO will burn it on drinks and sexcapades within a matter of weeks.
Francis Puleiwai has stepped up with complaint/charges and led the way to obtaining court hearings of all nine ‘persons of interests’ and clear the air. Hopefully enjoined by Saumi and other courageous FICAC officials.
File an official complaint with FICAC about alleged corrupt conduct on their part in misusing public funds and the corruption watchdog has no choice but to investigate it. Do the same with the police. And if a trickle of complaints turns into a flood – and the Coalition comes under intense political pressure – maybe it will be enough to bring these people to their senses.
GD, maybe insert a proforma to inform the general public of how to fill and lodge an official complaint.
Is that a fleck of foam on Tanya mouth or just left over grease from Peking. This is the new order and we are royally buggered. Sen and Co. foamed at the mouth in their anti FFP tirades and the diaspora views copped a shellacking even then. Take the diaspora billions away from Fiji and see what this once upon a time Nativist cuckold has to give. Shrill apologist with no academic or otherwise credibility.
What’s worse? Chinese ruination or the ruination from the itaukei themselves….?
While itaukei are governing and thieving, taxpayers (who can) are fleeing the land, including itaukei…..
Unless the military intervenes, the unbelievable will carry on….. Even if taxpayer votes change the current leadership, certain itaukei won’t be happy if things don’t go their way…guess what happens then?
Military intervention is the answer, straight up… And a caretaker government to rule for a very LONG time to clean up the mess…
Hopefully there are intellects left in the business community willing to pick up the broom ..
Its ok though, the PM has totally got his priorities in order – sorting out the turf in Suva.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14HbZa1XyKM/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Panem et circenses.Juvenal. Rabuka has it all worked out.
Or bread and circuses, for those who don’t understand Latin.