The State prosecution has filed a request with the High Court to impose a custodial sentence on former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama during the upcoming sentencing hearing next Wednesday. Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Laisani Tabuakuro, expressed her disagreement with the defense’s arguments advocating for a suspended sentence and unsupervised community service.
In her statements to the court, Tabuakuro emphasized that all individuals serving in public office are accountable for their actions. She stressed the need for a sentence that serves as a deterrent to others holding public positions, underscoring the gravity of Bainimarama’s alleged misconduct. The former Prime Minister has been charged under section 355 of the Crimes Act for making unwarranted demands with menace.
Tabuakuro maintained that the actions of Bainimarama inflicted harm not only on the immediate victim but also eroded the trust within the societal framework and democratic institutions. She argued that the public expects public officials to embody and protect democratic values in their roles, highlighting a breach of trust that is an exacerbating factor in this case.
Addressing the severity of the allegations, Tabuakuro mentioned that the culpability in this matter is notably high, arguing that Bainimarama, upon his election, had a duty to perform his responsibilities honorably. She referred to this case as a crucial reminder to future officeholders that making such demands can lead to legal repercussions.
Conversely, defense counsel asserted that the prosecution’s call for a custodial sentence should not dictate the court’s decision, insisting that the authority to determine an appropriate sentence lies solely with the judiciary. Justice Thushara Rajasinghe is set to announce the sentence next Wednesday.
This case, which has garnered significant public interest, reveals deeper issues surrounding governance, accountability, and the ethical obligations of public officials in Fiji. Observers anticipate that the trial may catalyze discussions about the need for greater transparency and responsibility in public service, leading to much-needed reforms in governance standards. As the legal proceedings unfold, the hope remains that they will instill stronger ethical commitments among those in positions of power, reinforcing trust in the government and justice system.