Former TLTB legal officer, businessman convicted for bribery

A former iTaukei Lands Trust Board (TLTB) legal officer and a businessman have been convicted over corrupt dealings linked to lease applications.

The Labasa Magistrates Court found Kelepi Ratule, former Legal Officer North, guilty on four counts of bribery. Businessman Varun Anand, director of Varun Consultants and Investment, was convicted on two counts of offering advantages.

The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) brought the charges under the Prevention of Bribery Act.

During the trial, the court heard that Ratule sought $8,000 in exchange for actions connected to his official duties. Evidence also showed that Anand provided $1,250 in benefits.

The payments were linked to TLTB lease applications submitted by Anand’s consultancy clients. The court was told that Ratule requested assistance while Anand sought updates on pending matters. In another instance, Ratule asked for travel-related support and later shared lease information, indicating he would assist.

Resident Magistrate Safaira Ratu ruled that the prosecution had proven the charges beyond reasonable doubt on all six counts and entered convictions.

Both men have 28 days to appeal.

Ratule was represented by Nemani Tuifagalele, Anand by John Prasad, while Sameea Nisa appeared for the State.