It Is Not A Political Or Diplomatic Matter: PM Bainimarama
'Of course, Mary and I are deeply concerned and disturbed about the charges. During my service as Prime Minister I have openly and routinely condemned violence perpetrated against women and children, and that commitment is unwavering.'
Monday 19 September 2022 | 17:00
Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama says his son Ratu Meli Bainimarama is not a member of the Fijian Government, thus the charges laid against him in Australia was not a political or diplomatic matter.
Ratu Meli Bainimarama, 36, faces 17 charges including common assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, stalking and intentionally choking a person without consent in Australia.
In a statement released on Saturday, Mr Bainimarama said: “Of course, Mary and I are deeply concerned and disturbed about the charges."
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During my service as Prime Minister I have openly and routinely condemned violence perpetrated against women and children, and that commitment is unwavering.”
However, he added that it was not appropriate for him to comment on any matter before the Australian courts.
“My focus must be on my duty to secure a safer and more prosperous future for all Fijian families. In the meantime, I ask the media to allow due process to take its course.”
Story By: Inoke Rabonu/inoke.rabonu@fijisun.com.fj
