Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has initiated legal action against the Government and the Attorney-General, asserting that they have not fully paid his pension and gratuity benefits. His attorney, Fatima Gul, brought the case before Acting Master Liyanage Kashyapa Wickramasekera at the Suva High Court.
Bainimarama, who held the office of Prime Minister from 2009 to 2022, claims that he is owed 75 percent of his annual salary for his pension as well as a gratuity payment. The total amount he asserts is $246,562.50 based on his annual salary of $328,750; however, he states that the Government has only recognized $184,921.87 as the appropriate amount.
In addition to the pension, Bainimarama is seeking a one-time gratuity payment of $770,507.87, but alleges he has only received $433,296.75, leading to a gap of $337,211.12.
Bainimarama’s legal team is asking for the following remedies:
– The payment of the outstanding gratuity balance of $337,211.12
– Accurate fortnightly pension payments of $7,112.37
– Entitlements specific to the Prime Ministers Pension Act of 1994
– Pension and retirement allowances according to the Parliamentary Remuneration Act
– Prejudgment interest at an annual rate of 13.5 percent, plus post-judgment interest until the matter is resolved
– Full legal costs on an indemnity basis
In response, the Government has refuted Bainimarama’s allegations, asserting that his entitlements have been properly fulfilled under the Prime Ministers Pension Act. They argue that he is entitled to 80 percent of his salary tied to the Parliamentary Remuneration Act, which would amount to $263,000. They maintain that all benefits due have been disbursed.
The court has instructed Bainimarama to submit his filings by November 19, with the Government expected to respond by December 3. A pre-trial conference is scheduled for January 7, 2025, and the case has been adjourned to February 5, 2025. Any party that fails to comply with the court’s directives could face a fine of $2,000.
This lawsuit highlights significant ongoing conversations surrounding government employee benefits and pensions. Such cases often underscore the importance of transparency and accountability in public financial matters. As both parties prepare for court, this situation can encourage a comprehensive examination of pension legislation and potentially lead to reforms that ensure future entitlements are managed more effectively.
Summary: Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has filed a lawsuit against the Government, claiming unpaid pension and gratuity entitlements. His legal team demands significant amounts, while the Government defends its payments as adequate. The court proceedings will unfold over the coming months, reminding the public about the critical issues of pension rights and government accountability.
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