Former journalist Charlie Charters has been granted bail after facing two counts of aiding and abetting under the Crimes Act, put forth by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). Charters appeared before Magistrate Shageeth Somaratne, with numerous family members and friends present for support during the proceedings.
FICAC lawyers, including Rusiate Doidoi, requested imposing strict bail conditions, which included cash bail, bi-weekly reporting to a police station, and a stop-departure order. They also sought restrictions that would prevent Charters from communicating with FICAC staff, visiting their offices, or speaking publicly about the case.
Charters’ attorney, Seforan Fatiaki, informed the court that his client resides in Hong Kong and had intended to travel to Sydney for work-related reasons. He emphasized that the charges could negatively impact Charters’ employment opportunities. Moreover, Fatiaki pointed out that the principal offender in this matter has yet to be identified or charged.
Despite FICAC’s requests, Magistrate Somaratne granted bail under standard conditions, allowing for the possibility for the defense to petition for adjustments in the bail terms should Charters need to travel for work. The court noted that Charters holds dual citizenship, and his passports will remain with FICAC until further notice.
FICAC has completed the initial phase of disclosures and is obligated to submit the second phase within the next seven days. The court has scheduled the next hearing for March 2, indicating a continued pursuit of clarity and resolution in this case.
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