Former Prime Minister of Fiji, Frank Bainimarama, along with the dismissed police chief Sitiveni Qiliho, have been granted bail after appearing in court facing serious allegations of inciting mutiny. The two were arrested on Wednesday and presented before Magistrate Yogesh Prasad under strict bail conditions.
Prosecutors claim that between January 1 and July 31, 2023, Bainimarama sent messages via Viber to Brigadier Manoa Gadai, urging him to take command of the army and instigate a coup against the current Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Major General Jone Kalouniwai. Additionally, both Bainimarama and Qiliho are accused of attempting to persuade Colonels Aseri Rokoura and Viliame Draunibaka, along with Lieutenant Colonel Atunaisa Vakatale, to join in their alleged mutiny, with indications that other officers were also approached.
During the court proceedings, Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku expressed that the state did not oppose bail but requested additional time to prepare full disclosures regarding the case. The matter is set to return to court on March 5, where further developments are anticipated.
The ongoing legal proceedings not only highlight the tension within Fiji’s political and military landscape but also underscore the seriousness with which allegations of such nature are being treated in the Pacific island nation. The case continues to unfold, drawing attention both locally and internationally due to its implications on governance and stability in Fiji.
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