Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho are preparing to file a motion with the High Court for clarification on the definitions of public service and civil service. This motion is expected to be heard in Suva Magistrates Court on April 11.
Bainimarama faces a charge of making unwarranted demands while in office, accusing him of pressuring former Acting Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu to terminate the employment of two police officers—Sergeant Penieli Ratei and Constable Tomasi Naulu—or resign if he did not comply. These actions are alleged to have occurred between May 21 and August 18, 2021, while Bainimarama served as Prime Minister of Fiji.
Similarly, Qiliho is charged with two counts of abuse of office. It is alleged that he intervened in Tudravu’s disciplinary actions against the two officers by overturning prior decisions that only imposed minor penalties, leading to their termination instead.
Legal discussions around the interpretation of public and civil service have emerged, with state counsel previously opposing the high court’s involvement due to earlier rulings by Magistrate Seini Puamau, which resulted in appeals and imprisonment. However, Devanesh Sharma, representing Bainimarama and Qiliho, contends that these conflicting terms deserve judicial clarification.
Both defendants have previously entered not guilty pleas, and a trial is scheduled from June 2 to July 11, 2025. The case has gained significant public interest, highlighting broader discussions on accountability, ethical governance, and transparency within Fiji’s public service sector. Many citizens are hopeful that the outcome will enhance trust in governmental institutions and ensure adherence to principles of integrity in public office.
This legal proceeding signifies a pivotal moment for the discourse on governance in Fiji, offering an opportunity to address and fortify ethical responsibilities among public officials.
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