Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qilihio are currently facing an investigation related to alleged efforts to persuade the Republic of Fiji Military Forces to deploy troops in response to concerns about potential violence and civil unrest during a politically sensitive time in December 2022. This period coincided with the establishment of a new government following Fiji’s general elections.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime, Mesake Waqa, has confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, addressing questions from The Fiji Times regarding sedition allegations involving Bainimarama and Qilihio.
In a September 2024 interview on The Fiji Times program Lens@177, Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, the military commander, detailed a conversation with then-police commissioner Qiliho, who had sought troop deployment due to perceived instability stemming from the election outcomes. Major-General Kalouniwai decided, however, to keep the military forces stationed at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks instead of taking action on the request.
On December 22, 2022, President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu publicly praised Major-General Kalouniwai’s leadership during this transitional period. He commended Kalouniwai for his firm decision that allowed the electoral process to continue uninterrupted and respected the electorate’s choice in forming a new government.
This investigation sheds light on the intricate dynamics between political and military authority in Fiji, emphasizing the critical importance of stability during transitional phases in governance. As the inquiry progresses, it highlights a commitment to upholding democratic principles in the nation. The outcome remains uncertain, yet it serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required in leadership during challenging times.