Bainimarama granted travel approval to support wife

Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has been granted permission to travel to Auckland, New Zealand, to support his wife, Mary Bainimarama, who left earlier this week for emergency medical treatment.

Mrs Bainimarama is receiving treatment at Allevia Hospital after being transported to New Zealand by air ambulance.

The High Court in Suva granted Bainimarama’s bail variation application today under strict conditions, lifting his Stop Departure Order until December 3.

The court warned that failure to return by that date could result in his bail being revoked and a warrant being issued for his arrest.

In his application, the defence told the court Bainimarama needed to accompany his wife to help make medical decisions, provide consent for treatment and manage financial matters.

The court also considered letters from treating doctors in New Zealand and Dr Taloga of Oceania Hospitals, who supported his presence during critical medical interventions.