Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho are set to file a motion with the High Court requesting clarification on the definitions of public service and civil service. This motion is slated to be addressed in the Suva Magistrates Court on April 11.
Bainimarama is facing a charge for allegedly making unwarranted demands while in office, specifically pressuring former Acting Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu to either terminate the employment of two police officers—Sergeant Penieli Ratei and Constable Tomasi Naulu—or resign. These events reportedly took place between May 21 and August 18, 2021, during his tenure as Prime Minister of Fiji.
In a related matter, Qiliho is charged with two counts of abuse of office, accused of intervening in Tudravu’s disciplinary actions against the same two officers, overturning previous decisions that had only imposed minor penalties and resulting in their termination.
The legal landscape surrounding the definitions of public and civil service has prompted significant debate, especially in light of state counsel’s opposition to the High Court’s involvement, referencing prior rulings by Magistrate Seini Puamau. Devanesh Sharma, representing both Bainimarama and Qiliho, argues that clarifying these conflicting terms is essential for judicial integrity.
Both defendants have previously pleaded not guilty, with a trial set to commence from June 2 to July 11, 2025. The proceedings have attracted considerable public interest, reflecting broader concerns regarding accountability and ethical governance in Fiji’s public service sector. Many citizens remain optimistic that the resolution of this case will bolster trust in governmental institutions and reinforce adherence to integrity in public office.
This situation marks a significant period for discussions about governance in Fiji, presenting an essential opportunity to address ethical responsibilities among public officials and enhance the overall functioning of the civil service.
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