Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama is pursuing a civil lawsuit against the Fiji Government, claiming miscalculation of his pension and gratuity entitlements. During a recent court hearing, Bainimarama testified that his original annual salary of $328,750 should have been reinstated after a temporary 20% salary cut, enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic, ended in December 2020.
Bainimarama argues that his pension should equate to 75% of his salary, totaling $246,562.50 annually. However, he stated that it has been wrongfully calculated at $184,921.87 due to the pandemic-related salary reduction. Furthermore, he claims a discrepancy in his one-time gratuity payment, asserting he is owed $337,211.12 after receiving only $433,296.75 of the expected $770,507.87.
In addition to seeking these sums, Bainimarama’s case includes a request for a fortnightly pension of $7,112.37, along with 13.5% annual interest on the outstanding amounts. While he maintained that he had not utilized his medical insurance benefits because he is covered by the military, evidence suggests he had previously claimed medical expenses.
The Attorney-General’s Office contends that Bainimarama’s pension calculations are in accordance with the adjusted salary post-pandemic, arguing that his entitlements were accurately calculated, asserting he is owed only 80% of his adjusted salary of $263,000.
This lawsuit sheds light on significant issues surrounding the management of public service pensions in Fiji, particularly during challenging economic circumstances. The court proceedings, set to continue with testimonies from key witnesses, provide an opportunity to clarify pension entitlements and improve transparency in public service remuneration in the future.
Such legal disputes not only influence individual outcomes but also catalyze discussions on public service rights, potentially leading to reforms that enhance the integrity and fairness of pension systems in Fiji.
Leave a comment