Kamikamica released on $10K bail bond, defence seeks permanent stay

Former Deputy Prime Minister and now Member of Parliament, Manoa Kamikamica, has been granted bail in the sum of a $10,000 bond.
Kamikamica appeared before Resident Magistrate Charles Ratakele at the Suva Magistrate Court this afternoon.

He is charged with one count of perjury and falsifying documents to a public servant.
It is alleged that between December 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025, in Suva, Kamikamica made a false statement under oath, claiming that he had nothing to do with the appointment of former Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner, Barbara Malimali.

He faces an alternate charge of giving false information to a public servant, after allegedly providing the same false information to the Commissioner of Inquiry (COI). Kamikamica arrived in the country last night and was escorted to court by FICAC officers this afternoon.

During the proceedings, FICAC lawyer Lilian Mausio stated that they were not objecting to bail, provided the court imposed strict bail conditions.

Senior defence lawyer Wylie Clarke argued against this, maintaining that his client had returned to Fiji voluntarily and presented himself to FICAC.

Mr Clarke said this was sufficient evidence for the court to accept that Kamikamica would appear for future court proceedings.

He added that this was an inappropriate case, where the evidence brought by FICAC was underwhelming in relation to the substantive charges.

Ms Mausio told the court that the maximum sentence for perjury is seven years, and under Section 22 of the Bail Act 2002, the Magistrate has the authority to impose strict bail conditions.

While Mr Clarke maintained his argument against strict bail conditions, the court granted Kamikamica’s release, noting that conditions would be set.

Kamikamica’s bail conditions include:

• A non-cash bail of $10,000;
• Two suitable sureties, each bonded for the same amount;
• Mandatory appearance at all court proceedings; and
• A requirement not to reoffend while on bail

Mr Clarke confirmed in court that FICAC has remained silent on their invitation to meet, prompting the defence to pursue an application before the High Court in Suva for a permanent stay of proceedings at the Magistrate Court.

Mr Clarke requested an adjournment of 10 to 12 days, which the court granted. The case has been adjourned to November 28 for plea.