Former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise and Communication, Manoa Kamikamica, has been given a $10,000 bail bond along with two sureties by the Suva Magistrate Court. This ruling came during a court appearance before Magistrate Charles Ratakele, where he was represented by lawyer Wylie Clarke.
Kamikamica is facing charges from the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) for perjury, as outlined under Section 176(1) of the Crimes Act 2009. The charge stems from allegations that between December 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025, he knowingly made a false statement under oath regarding his involvement in the appointment of the FICAC Commissioner. Additionally, he faces an alternative charge of Giving False Information to a Public Servant, which pertains to providing the same false information during a Commission of Inquiry.
During court proceedings, Kamikamica’s plea was deferred, and the FICAC requested strict bail conditions for him. However, his lawyer contended that Kamikamica returned to Fiji voluntarily to address the charges and emphasized the former minister’s good character and public service history.
The defense also argued that the evidence presented by FICAC was insufficient to support the charges, which prompted Magistrate Ratakele to grant a period of 28 days for the defense to update the court regarding their intention to seek a permanent stay at the High Court. Clarke mentioned that as of the previous day, he had not received a response from FICAC regarding the potential withdrawal of the charges.
In a climate of heightened scrutiny concerning governance and public accountability in Fiji, Kamikamica’s case has attracted significant attention, particularly regarding the appointment process of the FICAC Commissioner. Public discourse suggests a hopeful sentiment that these proceedings could lead to necessary reforms within Fiji’s political system, reinforcing a commitment to transparency and integrity.
This legal journey marks a pivotal moment in Fiji’s political landscape, as citizens remain optimistic about witnessing crucial steps toward improving accountability within government institutions. Kamikamica has been instructed to avoid reoffending and to appear for all scheduled court dates, with the next hearing set for the 28th of next month.