The legal proceedings involving former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho are potentially advancing to the High Court due to constitutional questions surrounding the specifics of Qiliho’s charges. Both individuals appeared for a pre-trial conference before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou at the Suva Magistrates Court.
Bainimarama is accused of making unwarranted demands as a public official, allegedly pressuring former Acting Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu to either terminate two police officers or resign himself. This incident reportedly occurred between May 21 and August 18, 2021. Qiliho faces accusations of abuse of office for intervening in Tudravu’s disciplinary decisions regarding the two officers, instead terminating their employment entirely after initially imposed penalties were deemed sufficient.
Their defense attorney, Devanesh Sharma, expressed no objections to the question of whether the definitions of civil service and public service would proceed to be resolved in the High Court. Magistrate Savou has instructed both the State and Defense to confirm their positions within 14 days.
This case, marked by significant public interest and potential implications for accountability in Fiji’s governmental roles, is set to continue with an adjournment until later this month. Observers hope that the ongoing legal process reinforces principles of transparency and integrity within public office, potentially leading to a greater understanding of civil service rights and ethical governance.
The upcoming trial is scheduled to run from June 2 to July 11, 2025, with around 30 witnesses expected to testify, symbolizing a crucial moment for discussions around accountability in Fiji’s public service sector. This underscores the common aspiration within the community for a fair trial and just outcomes in such high-profile cases.
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