The legal proceedings concerning former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho are moving towards the High Court as constitutional issues related to Qiliho’s charges are being examined. The pair recently attended a pre-trial conference at the Suva Magistrates Court, presided over by Magistrate Jeremaia Savou.
Bainimarama is facing serious allegations of exerting improper pressure as a public official, specifically accused of coercing the former Acting Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu, to forcibly remove two police officers or resign himself. This alleged coercion reportedly took place between May 21 and August 18, 2021. On the other hand, Qiliho is charged with abusing his office by intervening in Tudravu’s disciplinary actions regarding these two officers, opting instead to terminate their employment following the original penalties that had been deemed adequate.
During the proceedings, the defense attorney, Devanesh Sharma, raised no objections regarding the consideration of civil service versus public service definitions in the High Court. Magistrate Savou has tasked both the State and Defense with clarifying their positions within the next 14 days.
This case has garnered notable public attention, emphasizing the significance of accountability within Fiji’s government. Observers are hopeful that the legal proceedings promote transparency and integrity in public office, fostering a deeper understanding of civil service rights and ethical governance.
The trial is slated to take place from June 2 to July 11, 2025, with approximately 30 witnesses anticipated to provide testimony. This underscores a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding accountability in Fiji’s public service sector. The community is looking forward to a fair trial, reflecting a shared aspiration for justice and responsible governance in high-profile legal matters.
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