State pushes to fast-track Bainimarama, Qiliho alleged treason case

The State prosecution says it is ready to fast-track the newly charged treason case against former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho.

The matter was called before Resident Magistrate Yogesh Prasad yesterday afternoon. Both men appeared after being escorted from police custody.

Bainimarama and Qiliho are accused of inciting mutiny, allegedly attempting to overthrow Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Commander Ro Jone Kalouniwai in 2023.

The State prosecution alleges that between January and July 2023, Bainimarama sent Viber messages to Brigadier-General Manoa Gadai in an attempt to incite him to take over command and remove the authority of the RFMF Commander.

Bainimarama and Qiliho jointly face a second charge of allegedly attempting to incite senior RFMF officers, including Lieutenant-Colonel Atunaisa Vakatale, Colonel Aseri Rokoura and Colonel Viliame Draunibaka, to unlawfully arrest and remove the commander.

Families, supporters and members of the media filled the courtroom.

Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku asked the court about available trial dates and whether the matter could be heard this year.

Although disclosures to the defence would be completed within 14 days, Rabuku said the State was ready to proceed to trial.

“This is a straightforward matter,” he said.

Magistrate Prasad said while dates were available, it was too early to discuss scheduling before disclosures were served.

As the matter is indictable but triable summarily, both accused elected to have the case heard in the Magistrates Court.

The State raised no objection to bail. The court imposed strict bail conditions, including a stop-departure order, a non-cash bail bond of $5,000 each, and conditions not to reoffend or interfere with State witnesses.

Two sureties were required for each accused, with several individuals volunteering in court.

Bainimarama’s travel documents remain with the court registry. Qiliho’s passport has expired.

The matter will be called again on March 5, 2026.