Tudravu testifies as state witness in Bainimarama-Qiliho trial in Suva High Court
Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu took the stand today as a state witness in the ongoing trial of former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho, before Judge Justice Thushara Rajasinghe at the Suva High Court. Bainimarama is charged with one count of making unwarranted demands as a public official, while Qiliho faces two counts of abuse of office.
The prosecution alleges that, between May 21 and August 18, 2021, Bainimarama, in his capacity as Prime Minister, pressured acting Commissioner Tudravu to terminate the employment of Sergeant Penieli Ratei and Police Constable Tomasi Naulu from the Fiji Police Force. It is claimed that he threatened Tudravu’s job if he did not comply with the demand to dismiss the two officers.
The charges further assert that, between August 5 and August 18, 2021, while serving as Commissioner of Police, Qiliho directed the termination of Ratei and Naulu without due process, amounting to an abuse of his office and prejudicing the officers’ rights.
Bainimarama and Qiliho are represented by Devanesh Sharma and Gul Fatima, with the State represented by Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Laisani Tabuakuro.
Context and broader significance
This case continues to draw attention to issues of accountability and governance ethics in Fiji. Observers view the proceedings as a test of public-sector integrity and the strength of oversight mechanisms in government. The testimony of Tudravu adds a critical perspective on the dynamic between senior political leadership and the police command, highlighting the thin line between leadership expectations and lawful, due-process protections for public officers.
Summary
– Tudravu testified as a state witness in the Suva High Court.
– Bainimarama faces a charge of unwarranted demands; Qiliho faces two counts of abuse of office.
– Allegations involve pressure on Tudravu to terminate two officers and alleged unilateral termination by Qiliho without due process.
– Legal representation: Sharma and Fatima for the defendants; Tabuakuro for the State.
– The case is being watched as a key indicator of accountability and ethics in Fiji’s public service.
Outlook and added context
As the trial progresses, observers will be looking for how the remaining witnesses and the defense respond to the allegations, with a focus on due process, governance ethics, and the protection of officers’ rights. The proceedings underscore ongoing public interest in maintaining transparency and trust in Fiji’s institutions and governance framework.
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