The High Court in Suva has decided to delay its judgment in the ongoing case involving former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho until October 2, 2025. This decision comes after the presiding judge, Justice Thushara Rajasinghe, urged both legal parties to provide further submissions on specific sections of the Fijian Constitution.
Bainimarama faces charges of making an unwarranted demand as a public official. Allegations indicate that between May 21 and August 18, 2021, Bainimarama instructed then-Acting Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu to terminate the employment of Sergeant Penieli Ratei and Constable Tomasi Naulu, threatening Tudravu with resignation should he fail to comply.
On the other hand, Qiliho is accused of two counts of abuse of office. He allegedly intervened improperly in the disciplinary processes established by Tudravu regarding the termination of the two officers, effectively sidestepping customary police protocols.
The State’s legal team is led by Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Laisani Tabuakuro, along with Senior State Lawyer Pooja Mishra. Bainimarama and Qiliho are represented by lawyers Devanesh Sharma and Gul Fatima from R Patel Lawyers.
The trial related to these charges is scheduled to last from June 2 to July 11, 2025. This period will see around 30 witnesses called to testify, with much public interest surrounding the proceedings. The trial presents an opportunity for discussions on governance, accountability, and transparency within Fiji’s political landscape. The nature of the charges highlights significant concerns about the misuse of authority and the ethical obligations of public officials.
As the public awaits the trial, there is a hopeful sentiment that this legal scrutiny will culminate in strengthened standards for governance and bolster public trust in Fiji’s institutions. Such a detailed judicial process underscores the judicial system’s crucial role in maintaining fairness and accountability among public figures, potentially leading to increased transparency and ethical governance in the country.