The Magistrates Court is set to make a decision regarding the bail hearing of a couple facing serious corruption-related charges. The pair, Ledua Biuvuli Matai, a former employee of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), and his wife, Taucilagi Duri, were remanded in custody after their proposed sureties were deemed unacceptable by Resident Magistrate Sufia Hamza.

Matai is charged with one count of abuse of office for personal gain, while Duri faces a charge of aiding and abetting this abuse. It is alleged that from November 2019 to June 2022, during his tenure as the Principal Accounts Officer at the RFMF, Matai failed to disclose his financial interest in a business called Ink Escape Supplies. He is accused of subsequently adding this business as an RFMF vendor and facilitating payments amounting to $467,616.40 from the RFMF to Ink Escape Supplies.

Duri is alleged to have assisted her husband in these activities during the same period. The court proceedings related to the sureties have been postponed, with further developments expected soon.

This case highlights the importance of accountability in public office and the ongoing efforts to combat corruption within government entities. The legal process is designed to ensure justice is upheld, and the outcome of this hearing will be closely monitored as it may set a precedent for future cases. It’s hopeful that these proceedings can lead to greater transparency and reinforce the integrity of public services in Fiji.

In summary, the couple is facing serious allegations, and the court’s decision on bail will be pivotal as the case unfolds.