The Fiji Court of Appeal has allowed former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Commissioner of Police Sitiveni Qiliho to proceed with their appeal. The pair is challenging aspects of their convictions based on several legal grounds, including whether there was a misapplication of the rule of law under Browne v Dunn, and whether the interpretation of Section 15 of the Sentencing and Penalties Act regarding recording convictions was correct. They argue that the High Court Judge should have recused himself from the case.
Bainimarama was convicted of attempting to pervert the course of justice, while Qiliho was charged with abuse of office related to an investigation into a complaint involving the University of the South Pacific. Their legal team is seeking to present further grounds for the appeal in the upcoming July session of the Court.
This ruling is significant, as it allows for a more in-depth review of the legal proceedings surrounding their original convictions. The ongoing legal battle has garnered public interest, highlighting the resilience of the judicial system and its role in maintaining accountability at high levels of government. As both defendants prepare to present their case, their appeals could have far-reaching implications for their futures and the political climate in Fiji.
The court’s decision signifies an important step towards ensuring justice is thoroughly examined, providing a hopeful outlook for accountability and fairness in the judicial process.
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