Former Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica has been granted a bail bond of $10,000 alongside two sureties by the Suva Magistrate Court. This decision was made during his court appearance in front of Magistrate Charles Ratakele, where he was represented by lawyer Wylie Clarke.
Kamikamica faces serious allegations from the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), specifically charges of perjury as defined under Section 176(1) of the Crimes Act 2009. The accusations relate to allegations that he knowingly made a false statement under oath about his role in the appointment of the FICAC Commissioner between December 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025. Furthermore, he is also charged with Giving False Information to a Public Servant, stemming from providing similar false information during a Commission of Inquiry.
During the court proceedings, Kamikamica’s plea was deferred. The FICAC sought stringent bail conditions; however, his defense emphasized his voluntary return to Fiji to face the charges and highlighted his commendable character and service record. The defense attorney argued that the evidence brought forth by FICAC was insufficient to uphold the allegations, prompting Magistrate Ratakele to allow a 28-day period for the defense to notify the court regarding intentions to seek a permanent stay of the proceedings at the High Court. Clarke revealed that there had been no communication from FICAC regarding the potential withdrawal of charges as of the previous day.
In light of growing scrutiny around governance and accountability in Fiji, Kamikamica’s case has garnered significant public interest, particularly related to the appointment process of the FICAC Commissioner. This situation sparks a hopeful discussion around potential reforms in Fiji’s political system, aiming to enhance accountability and transparency.
As Fiji navigates this legal chapter, citizens are eager to see meaningful changes within government institutions. Kamikamica has been instructed to refrain from reoffending and is expected to attend all forthcoming court dates, with his next hearing scheduled for the 28th of next month. The developments in this case could signal a transformative phase for governance in Fiji, reflecting a collective aspiration for integrity in the political sphere.