Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has initiated legal action against the Government and the Attorney-General, alleging that they have not fully compensated him for his pension and gratuity entitlements. Bainimarama’s lawyer, Fatima Gul, presented this case to Acting Master Liyanage Kashyapa Wickramasekera at the High Court in Suva.
Bainimarama, who held the position of Prime Minister from 2009 to 2022, asserts that he is entitled to 75 percent of his annual salary as a pension, along with a gratuity payment. He claims that this should total $246,562.50 from his annual salary of $328,750. However, the Government reportedly adjusted this entitlement to $184,921.87. Additionally, Bainimarama is demanding a one-time gratuity of $770,507.87, indicating that he received only $433,296.75, which leaves a balance of $337,211.12.
To resolve this matter, Bainimarama’s legal team is seeking several forms of relief, including:
– The outstanding gratuity balance of $337,211.12,
– Adjustment of pension payments to $7,112.37 bi-weekly,
– Benefits as stated in Section 9 of the Prime Ministers Pension Act 1994,
– Pension and retirement allowances based on the Parliamentary Remuneration Act,
– Pre- and post-judgment interest at a rate of 13.5 percent per annum,
– Full solicitor-client indemnity costs.
In defense, the Government refutes these claims, arguing that Bainimarama’s entitlements have been accurately fulfilled in accordance with the Prime Ministers Pension Act, asserting he is entitled to 80 percent of his salary as described in the Parliamentary Remuneration Act, amounting to $263,000. They contend that all rightful benefits have been provided.
The court has ordered Bainimarama to submit relevant filings by November 19, with the Government required to respond by December 3. A pre-trial conference is scheduled for January 7, 2025, and the case will be adjourned to February 5, 2025. Non-compliance with court orders could lead to a fine of $2000.
This case highlights ongoing discussions regarding the rights and entitlements of public officials, and it will be closely watched as it progresses through the legal system. It serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and adherence to laws governing public service benefits in any nation.
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