Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama is currently embroiled in a legal dispute with the Fiji Government over alleged miscalculations regarding his pension and gratuity payments. Bainimarama, who served as Prime Minister from 2009 until 2022, claims he should be entitled to 75 percent of his annual salary of $328,750, which amounts to $246,562.50. However, he argues that following a 20% pay cut implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, his pension was erroneously adjusted down to $184,921.87.
During a court hearing presided over by Justice Daniel Goundar, Bainimarama testified, asserting that he was only receiving a fraction of what he believes he is owed. He argues that the temporary salary adjustments made by Parliament during the pandemic should have ended and his full salary reinstated by January 2021. He expressed that he did not pursue further adjustments at the time due to the ongoing recovery needed by Fijians amidst the crisis.
In addition to the pension claim, Bainimarama is also seeking a one-time gratuity payment of $770,507.87, but states that he has only received $433,296.75 to date, resulting in an outstanding balance of $337,211.12. His legal representatives are requesting that his pension be adjusted to a fortnightly payment of $7,112.37 and have also flagged the interest on these outstanding sums.
The Government, represented by the Attorney-General’s Office, has countered Bainimarama’s claims, arguing that his pensions were calculated adequately according to current legislation, asserting he is entitled to only 80% of his adjusted final salary of $263,000 after the salary reductions.
This ongoing legal battle not only reflects the personal financial stakes involved but also raises broader questions about the management and transparency of public service pension systems in Fiji, particularly in times of economic strain. As the case progresses through the High Court, it has potential implications for the rights of public servants and could lead to improved regulations around pension entitlements moving forward.
The courtroom proceedings present an opportunity for strengthening the framework governing public service pensions, which could foster greater transparency and fairness for those who have served in government, ensuring that their contributions are properly recognized and compensated.
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