Former PM Bainimarama denies interfering in police affairs

Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has denied all allegations that he interfered in police matters during his tenure, as the abuse of office trial involving him and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho nears its conclusion.

Bainimarama told the court he never threatened current Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu regarding the employment of two police officers and did not intervene in any police investigations during his time in office.

Qiliho has completed his examination-in-chief and is scheduled for cross-examination after lunch.

Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Laisani Tabuakuro indicated that she may take up almost an hour to cross-examine Qiliho.

Bainimarama faces one count of unwarranted demands made by a public official, over allegations that he asked Tudravu to terminate the employment of Penieli Nayare Ratei and Tomasi Naulu, or resign himself. The alleged incident occurred between 21 May and 18 August 2021.

Qiliho faces two counts of abuse of office for allegedly reviewing Tudravu’s disciplinary decisions and terminating the officers contrary to the fines imposed.

The trial is ongoing, with further proceedings set for later today.