The Suva High Court heard today that Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu testified as the last prosecution witness in the trial of former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho. Tudravu’s cross-examination focused on how he was appointed to the post and the procedures he followed to assume the role.
Tudravu told the court that for his current position he applied, went through interview processes, and, on the recommendation of the Constitutional Office’s Commission, received official appointment letters from the President. He also outlined his employment history and said that his communications with the line minister and the Prime Minister were professional and focused on national concerns, with ministers not interfering in his duties as Commissioner of Police.
He further stated that the Commissioner of Police does not meddle with the disciplinary tribunal’s processes; instead, the police leadership endorses and makes decisions based on the tribunal officer’s recommendations. The state pressed Tudravu on these points this morning as the trial continued.
The charges in the matter allege that Bainimarama, while Prime Minister, made unwarranted demands as a public official, and that Qiliho, as Police Commissioner, abused his office. Specifically, it is claimed that between May and August 2021, Bainimarama pressured Tudravu, then Acting Commissioner, to dismiss officers Sergeant Penieli Ratei and Constable Tomasi Naulu or resign. Qiliho is accused of overruling Tudravu’s disciplinary decisions and unlawfully terminating both officers between August 5 and August 18, 2021.
In related testimony, Deputy Director of Human Resources Jovilisi Leweniqila indicated that orders to terminate Ratei and Naulu came directly from Qiliho, and the officers were given just three days to respond—far shorter than the typical 14 days. The prosecution has been building its case on such evidence, with Tudravu positioned as a key witness.
The defendants are represented by Davenesh Sharma (Bainimarama) and Gul Fatima (Qiliho), while the State is represented by Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Laisani Tabuakuro. The trial is being presided over by Judge Justice Thushara Rajasinghe at the Suva High Court, and continues in the morning sessions with further witnesses expected.
Context and outlook
Observers view the proceedings as a test of accountability and governance ethics in Fiji, highlighting the balance between political leadership and due process for public officers. A thorough, transparent presentation of evidence and a fair ruling could reinforce public trust in Fiji’s institutions and governance framework.
Summary
– Tudravu testified as the state’s final witness in the Bainimarama-Qiliho trial.
– Bainimarama faces one count of unwarranted demands; Qiliho faces two counts of abuse of office.
– Allegations focus on pressure to dismiss Ratei and Naulu and on overriding disciplinary decisions.
– Additional testimony suggested orders to terminate came from Qiliho, with a notably short response window for the officers.
– The case continues in Suva High Court with ongoing considerations of governance ethics and accountability.
Editor’s note
This trial touches on crucial issues of integrity, independence of the police force, and civil-servant protections within Fiji’s public service. Readers should watch for how future testimonies address due process, the chain of command, and the impact on officer rights, as these elements will shape the broader conversation about governance and transparency in Fiji.
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