The trial against former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho commenced today at the Suva High Court. The proceedings are being overseen by Justice Thushara Rajasinghe.
Bainimarama faces a charge of making unwarranted demands as a public official, while Qiliho is dealing with two counts of abuse of office. These charges stem from allegations between May 21 and August 18, 2021, when Bainimarama allegedly pressured then Acting Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu to dismiss Sergeant Penieli Ratei and Police Constable Tomasi Naulu from the Fiji Police Force, threatening Tudravu’s job if he did not comply.
Qiliho, on the other hand, is accused of unlawfully terminating the employment of the two police officers without following due process, a move that the charges suggest undermined the officers’ rights and amounted to an abuse of his position.
Both Bainimarama and Qiliho are being represented by lawyers Devanesh Sharma and Gul Fatima, while the State’s case is led by Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Laisani Tabuakuro.
The case is raising significant conversations around public accountability and governance ethics in Fiji. As the trial progresses, it presents an opportunity for the judicial system to reinforce the principles of integrity within public office. Observers hope for a fair resolution, which may serve to strengthen public trust in governmental institutions.
Importantly, this trial could set new standards for the conduct of public officials in Fiji, emphasizing transparency and ethical behavior in governance. As this significant case unfolds, it is a pivotal moment for assessing the accountability mechanisms that ensure justice and uphold the rule of law.
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