The Magistrates Court is set to make a decision regarding the bail hearing of a couple facing corruption-related charges. The pair, Ledua Biuvuli Matai, a former employee of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), and his wife, Taucilagi Duri, were taken into custody after their sureties were deemed unacceptable by Resident Magistrate Sufia Hamza.
Matai is facing a charge of abuse of office for personal gain, while Duri is charged with aiding and abetting that offense. The allegations state that between November 2019 and June 2022, while serving as the RFMF’s Principal Accounts Officer, Matai failed to disclose his personal interest in a business called Ink Escape Supplies. He reportedly added this business as an RFMF vendor and facilitated payments totaling $467,616.40 to it during his tenure.
Both have their cases adjourned to allow for further review of the sureties. Further developments are expected as the court continues to address the matter.
This situation underscores the importance of accountability within public service roles, reinforcing the need for transparency and integrity. It will be essential to monitor this case as it unfolds, as it not only reflects on the individuals involved but also on the larger systems of governance and financial oversight in place.
Summary: The Magistrates Court will rule on the bail hearing of Ledua Biuvuli Matai and his wife, Taucilagi Duri, who face corruption charges related to Matai’s alleged failure to declare a conflict of interest while employed by the RFMF. The court found their sureties unacceptable, and the case has been adjourned for further consideration.
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