Former Fiji Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama testified in Suva High Court that he did not factory-reset his official phone when handing it back at the transition of government, and that he did not use Viber to press Acting Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu to dismiss officers or to resign. He said he never sent Tudravu any Viber messages demanding updates on the officers’ cases and that police did not request any such messages during his caution interview. Bainimarama also described his relationship with former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho as one formed during their time in the Republic of Fiji Military Forces.
The state questioned him about why he did not produce any Viber messages to challenge the charges; Bainimarama replied that there were none on his side and that there had been no requests for messages during caution interviews. He acknowledged knowing Qiliho from prior service but asserted he did not know the identities or ranks of the officers involved in the case.
During the proceedings, the court clarified two issues: who the Constitutional Officers Commission members were in 2021, and when Tudravu was offered the Tailevu Provincial Council Chair position. Bainimarama is charged with one count of making unwarranted demands as a public official, while former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho faces two counts of abuse of office. The trial continues later in the day.
Context linked to the case has repeatedly highlighted the handling of digital communications and informants. Earlier testimony has described Bainimarama’s late brother, Jonacani Bainimarama, as a person connected to the investigation, with claims that he acted as a drug informant in a separate 2021 marijuana transport case and that his statements were recorded under Tudravu’s direction. Prosecutors have also relied on documentary material, including search warrants and appointment records related to Tudravu and Qiliho, to establish the timeline and authority behind the disputed disciplinary actions.
A key issue throughout the trial has been the treatment of Viber communications and the reliability of digital evidence when senior officers are involved. The defense has noted that Bainimarama’s phone was reset, making the recovery of alleged messages difficult, and there have been discussions about appointing independent technical experts to interpret Viber data.
What to watch next:
– Tudravu’s forthcoming testimony, expected to be pivotal for determining whether there was improper political influence and who ultimately made disciplinary decisions.
– Any additional documents related to Viber communications, search warrants, and appointment records that could illuminate the chain of command.
– Ongoing examination of informant materials and how confidentiality and safety considerations were managed in the inquiry.
Added value and analysis:
– The case sits at the intersection of political oversight and police independence, raising questions about how executive guidance interacts with internal disciplinary processes and due process for officers.
– If prosecutors prove unwarranted political influence, it could prompt reforms in disciplinary procedures and oversight within Fiji’s public service.
– If the defense demonstrates actions were within the bounds of the law and properly executed, it could reinforce limits on executive involvement in internal police matters while underscoring the importance of procedural safeguards.
Hopeful perspective:
– A transparent, evidence-based trial that upholds due process can strengthen public trust in Fiji’s governance and policing institutions, with clear findings contributing to accountability and the integrity of public service.
Short snapshot:
– Bainimarama faces one count of unwarranted demands; Qiliho faces two counts of abuse of office.
– The allegations center on pressure to terminate or threaten to terminate two officers in May–August 2021, with Tudravu as acting commissioner handling the disciplinary actions.
– The trial continues as witnesses and documents related to Viber communications and the chain of command are scrutinized.
Key takeaway for readers:
– The case probes whether political influence improperly shaped police discipline, and whether official actions were properly documented and executed. The coming testimony and any new documentary evidence are expected to further illuminate the balance between leadership and lawful, rights-respecting discipline in Fiji’s public service.
Leave a comment