Prominent lawyer Devanesh Sharma contended today that the Magistrates Court is fully capable of handling the case involving former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho. Bainimarama faces a charge of making unwarranted demands as a public official, while Qiliho is charged with two counts of abuse of office. The allegations against Bainimarama suggest that during May to August 2021, he pressured then-Acting Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu to either dismiss officers Penieli Ratei and Tomasi Naulu or resign if he failed to comply. For his part, Qiliho is accused of unlawfully terminating the two officers, overriding Tudravu’s previously determined disciplinary decisions.
The state has requested to transfer the case to the High Court, claiming exclusive jurisdiction over the matter. However, Sharma opposed this transfer, arguing that the Magistrates Court has the authority to proceed with the case and that the state’s motion was filed too close to the trial date. He raised concerns, noting that both Bainimarama and Qiliho are unemployed, making legal costs a pressing issue.
Tabuakoro, the Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions, claimed that the defense’s position is unstable and criticized Sharma’s firm stance. Nonetheless, she maintained that the entire proceeding must fall under the High Court’s purview. The court will reconvene on this matter, with a ruling on the transfer application scheduled for next Monday at 2:30 PM.
This legal battle highlights the critical issues of accountability and governance in Fiji, raising significant public interest. Observers are expressing hope that the unfolding proceedings will encourage transparency and reinforce ethical standards among public officials, potentially leading to improved trust in the government and justice system. The upcoming trial is set for June 2 to July 11, 2025, with approximately 30 witnesses anticipated to testify, suggesting a robust engagement of the legal system in matters of public integrity.
Overall, the progression of this case could serve as an important step toward enhancing governance standards in Fiji, fostering a public discourse centered on accountability and responsibility in public office.
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