Bainimarama, Qiliho Released On Strict Bail Conditions

Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and suspended Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho were released on strict bail conditions yesterday.

Bainimarama was charged with unwarranted demands made by a public official and Qiliho was charged with abuse of office related to the alleged unlawful termination of two police officers in 2021.

The duo appeared before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou.

Charges

Bainimarama is charged with one count of Unwarranted Demands. Made by a Public Official, contrary to Section 355 (a)(b)(i) and (c) (ii) of the Crimes Act 2009.

It is alleged that between May 21, 2021, to August 18, 2021, while employed as a public official, he made an unwarranted demand with menaces on a former senior police officer Rusiate Tudravu when he told him to terminate the employment of Penieli Nayare Ratei and Tomasi Naulu.

He allegedly threatened that if Tudravu did not terminate the officers, he was to hand in his resignation.

It is further alleged that he used his official capacity as Prime Minister of the Republic of Fiji with the intention of influencing Tudravu.

Suspended Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho and Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama outside Court in Suva on February 14, 2024. Photos: Ronald Kumar

It is alleged that during the same period, he also reviewed the disciplinary decision made by Tudravu, which was a fine equivalent to five working days, and contrary to this decision, he terminated the employment of Ratai.

Acting Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku did not object to bail, but called for bail conditions.

Both individuals were granted bail, with Bainimarama’s conditions remaining the same as in a previous case, and Qiliho was released on $10,000 non-cash bond bail with restrictions, a stop departure order and not to interfere with State witnesses while on bail.

The case has been adjourned to March 19 at 10.30am.

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