The bail application hearing for former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho has been withdrawn, as indicated by his attorney, Devanesh Sharma, during a session with Justice Chandana Prematilaka in the Fiji Court of Appeal. Originally set for today, the defense chose to focus on the substantive issues of the case instead.
Qiliho and former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama were convicted in March 2023, with Bainimarama facing charges of attempting to pervert the course of justice concerning the University of the South Pacific and Qiliho being found guilty of abuse of office. Bainimarama received a one-year sentence but was released after six months, while Qiliho is currently serving a two-year term.
The decision to withdraw the bail application is aimed at allowing the legal team to focus on appealing the convictions. The court has outlined a timeline for documentation submissions, requiring the State’s response to Qiliho’s appeal by January 21. A critical hearing is anticipated on January 30, which will play a significant role in directing the future of both individuals.
These developments highlight significant legal proceedings occurring in Fiji, which could affect public trust in the judicial system. The ongoing court case serves as a platform for discussing potential judicial reforms and the importance of accountability in governance. As the case unfolds, there exists a sense of cautious optimism that the judicial system may provide opportunities for reevaluation, possibly leading to favorable outcomes for Qiliho and Bainimarama in the future.
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