Court case sheds light on alleged political influence over Fiji Police during Bainimarama era
In Suva High Court, Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu testified that political interference within the Fiji Police Force was a norm during former prime minister Voreqe Bainimarama’s tenure, with officers who disagreed with orders fearing loss of their jobs. He spoke as the case against Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho continues, focusing on alleged unwarranted demands and abuse of office linked to the May–August 2021 period.
Tudravu and a 40-year career in the force
Tudravu, who had served the force for more than four decades and was acting commissioner while Sitiveni Qiliho studied in the United Kingdom, told the court the work environment under Bainimarama was difficult. He recalled that on May 21, 2021, two officers—Sergeant Penieli Ratei and Constable Tomasi Naulu—posted a photo of Bainimarama’s brother, Jonacani, who was reported to be involved in drugs, on a police Viber group chat. The next morning, Tudravu said he received a hostile call from Bainimarama, who used strong language and instructed the removal of the officers who had uploaded the photo.
Tudravu said he was surprised by the May 21 incident, as he had not been aware of it beforehand. He instructed the police to record Jonacani’s statement and directed that Ratei and Naulu be interdicted on half-pay pending a tribunal hearing. The tribunal convened on May 23, but Tudravu testified that, under pressure from the former prime minister, he moved quickly to investigate and fast-track the tribunal’s work.
Proceedings, disciplinary steps, and resignation
Asked why he did not terminate the officers outright, Tudravu explained it would have been unlawful without the tribunal process. He said he informed Bainimarama of the tribunal actions via a Viber message. On August 4, Tudravu learned from Bainimarama that the officers should be terminated, with a blunt warning: “It’s either them or you have to resign.” Tudravu testified that he chose to protect the integrity of the process and refused to reverse the disciplinary outcomes.
According to Tudravu, Bainimarama later insisted he resign if he could not follow orders. Tudravu, who had a few months left on his contract, said Bainimarama pressed him to tender his resignation. He also recalled that, when questioned about whether he captured screenshots of the Viber messages or kept diary notes, he did not believe he needed to, describing the discussions as a “transparent discussion” rather than a signal of hidden intent.
Resignation, subsequent events, and ongoing trial
On August 11, 2021, Tudravu handed his resignation letter to Qiliho, who resumed the post as commissioner on August 6. Tudravu said Qiliho told him he should have listened to Bainimarama. Tudravu described feeling unsupported by the force’s leadership as he left, adding there was no official farewell. He said he has forgiven both Bainimarama and Qiliho despite the friction he faced.
The trial has seen testimony from other officials, including Deputy Director of Human Resources Jovilisi Leweniqila, who explained that orders to terminate Ratei and Naulu came directly from Qiliho and that officers were given only three days to respond, far shorter than the standard 14-day window. The state continues to call witnesses, with Tudravu identified as a central figure in establishing how disciplinary decisions were made and whether political influence influenced those decisions.
Informants, documents, and governance implications
Testimony has also touched on an informant connected to Bainimarama circles, with Jonacani Bainimarama described as involved in a drug case. The informant’s handling and safety were discussed in the context of standard police practice. Investigators have also examined documents related to appointments and contracts of Tudravu and Qiliho, including appointment letters obtained from the Office of the President under a search warrant.
Context and outlook
Observers view the proceedings as a test of governance ethics, accountability, and the independence of Fiji’s public service. A thorough, transparent ruling could reinforce public trust in institutions and the integrity of policing practices. The state says Tudravu will be a key witness, and the trial is set to continue with additional hearings and witnesses to determine whether the alleged directions and disciplinary reversals constituted criminal behavior.
Added value and commentary
– The case highlights the ongoing tension between political oversight and professional police independence, with potential implications for civil-service protections and due process.
– If prosecutors prove undue interference, reforms in oversight and disciplinary procedures for Fiji’s public service could follow.
– If the defense demonstrates that actions were within legal bounds and properly followed internal processes, it could underscore the limits of executive authority in internal discipline.
Short summary
– Tudravu testified that he did not rebel or resign under Bainimarama’s pressure and did not initially record or screenshot exchanges.
– Bainimarama is charged with unwarranted demands; Qiliho faces abuse of office for allegedly overruling disciplinary decisions.
– The case centers on May–August 2021 and the dismissal or threatened dismissal of Ratei and Naulu, with further testimony anticipated on Viber communications and document handling.
Editor’s note and reader takeaway
This ongoing case probes the boundaries between political leadership and police independence, raising important questions about governance ethics, accountability, and civil-servant protections in Fiji. Readers should follow forthcoming testimonies and court rulings for clarity on how due process was observed and what reforms, if any, may emerge to safeguard public servants and public trust. The proceedings remain a pivotal moment for assessing how governance norms are applied in practice and what safeguards strengthen integrity in Fiji’s institutions.
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