Matanitobua has been handed a sentence of 36 months imprisonment. Out of 36 months, 26 months is ordered to be served effective immediately with a non-parole period of 20 months.

The remaining 10 months is suspended for a period of five years.

Matanitobua has been found guilty and convicted for one count each of false information to a public servant and of obtaining financial advantage.

He appeared at the Anti-Corruption High Court in Suva before Judge Justice Thushara Kumarage this morning for his sentence, represented by lawyer Filimoni Vosarogo.

The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) prosecuted Matanitobua for corruption and fraudulent conduct.

The Anti-Corruption High Court had found that the MP breached the Parliamentary Remuneration Act of 2014 when he claimed travel and accommodation allowances which he was not entitled to.

The complaints were brought by the former Parliament Secretary-General, Viniana Namosimalua.

Matanitobua falsely stated that his permanent place of residence was in Police Special Response Unit and allegedly obtained $38,378.22 between August 2019 and April 2020.

The court room was filled with Thushara Kumarage family, friends, and supporters.

The presence of the Police Special Response Unit team was also noted outside and inside the courtroom.

Anti-Corruption High Court Judge Justice Dr Thushara Kumarage said Matanitobua’s conduct was the highest breach of trust in the eyes of the general public and the Parliament.

He said the offender was an MP for several years and was well aware he was reposed with trust and responsibility of behalf of his voters.

Dr Kumarage added that Matanitobua’s conduct betrayed public trust in MPs.

He said there were no actual expenses involved for the reimbursement claims made by Matanitobua.

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