The Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) will request President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu to extend their examination period to next month.
Commission chair, Justice David E Ashton-Lewis, revealed the likely extension on the third day of the hearings, citing delays in the examination of witnesses as the main reason for the extended timeline.
“We’ve had a long day, a good day,” Justice Ashton-Lewis said.
“But we’re probably going to have to request of the President to extend the date to the end of February.
“We will need, we think, about another four weeks because we are quite behind in the examination of witnesses.”
Justice Ashton-Lewis said because this issue was so important, everyone involved must have the freedom to ask as many questions as they need.
Senior barrister Janet Mason, who is the main lawyer assisting the inquiry, starts by asking her questions.
After that, four or five other groups also get their turn to ask their own questions.
Justice Ashton-Lewis acknowledged that the comprehensive nature of the questioning and the detailed responses from witnesses had slowed progress.
“You can’t answer these questions with a simple yes or no.
“You have to be able to explain.”
Justice Ashton-Lewis has also confirmed plans to sit on weekends to expedite the proceedings.
All witnesses have been cooperative, according to Justice Ashton-Lewis, with no issues reported regarding attendance.
About 28 witnesses are left to face the COI.