The Fiji Court of Appeal is set to examine the request for bail pending appeal from former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho, who is currently serving a one-year sentence. Qiliho appeared before Justice Chandana Prematilaka at the Veiuto Court Complex, accompanied by former Prime Minister Bainimarama, who was previously granted an early release.
Both Qiliho and Bainimarama were convicted by the High Court in Suva on March 14. In yesterday’s court proceedings, their lawyer, Devanesh Sharma, indicated that they were withdrawing a prior motion related to their conviction and sentencing, which had been filed in April of the previous year. This motion sought a stay on their sentencing in the Court of Appeal, but the case proceeded regardless. Sharma expressed optimism that Qiliho would be granted bail similar to Bainimarama’s situation.
Justice Prematilaka has allotted 21 days for the applicants to submit their arguments regarding bail, with the State required to respond by January 21. Additionally, Sharma will have until January 28 to reply to the State’s response before the next court appearance set for January 30.
This legal process highlights the ongoing debates surrounding the justice system in Fiji, particularly in cases involving high-profile figures. It is encouraging to see that the judicial system is providing a platform for these appeals, which reflects the principles of due process and justice.
In summary, the case of Sitiveni Qiliho demonstrates the intricate workings of the legal system and the importance of upholding judicial rights, leaving room for a potentially positive outcome for his appeal.
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