Voreqe Bainimarama Sentenced next Week for Unwarranted Demand of Police Commissioner
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Former Fijian Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama is scheduled to be sentenced next Wednesday after being convicted on October 2nd of making an unwarranted demand of then-acting Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu between May and August 2021. This case marks the first prosecution in Fiji under the offence of “unwarranted demand to a public official.” https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-update/510999/fiji-s-bainimarama-to-be-sentenced-next-week
The conviction stems from events surrounding the dismissal of two police officers who shared images of Bainimarama’s brother on a police Viber chat group.
Sentencing Arguments
During a recent court hearing,defense counsel,Mr. sharma,requested a three-year suspended sentence,arguing that the 71-year-old Bainimarama poses no threat to the community due to his retirement and reliance on a pension. He also highlighted Bainimarama’s previous conviction being under appeal, his completion of community work, and subsequent rehabilitation.
Though, the State, represented by Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Laisani Tabuakuro, is seeking a custodial sentence.Tabuakuro argued that Bainimarama abused his position by making the demand with menace, despite lacking the authority to do so, thus demonstrating a high level of culpability. She cited precedent stating, “The higher the position, the higher the sentence,” when sentencing public officials.https://www.fijitimes.com/bainimarama-could-not-be-entitled-to-good-character-state/ She further contended that Bainimarama’s actions undermined the institution and therefore he should not be considered to have “good character.”
Co-Accused Acquittal & Court Decision
Bainimarama was found guilty by Justice Thushara Rajasinghe. his co-accused, former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho, was acquitted of a charge of abuse of office. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-11/fiji-ex-pm-bainimarama-convicted-over-police-demand/102974998
Key Takeaways
* Historic Case: This is the first time Fiji has prosecuted someone under the charge of “unwarranted demand to a public official.”
* Sentencing Disparity: The defense seeks a suspended sentence, while the prosecution argues for imprisonment.
* Abuse of Power: The core of the case revolves around allegations that Bainimarama misused his authority.
* Impact on Institutions: The prosecution argues Bainimarama’s actions undermined the integrity of the Fijian police force.
Bainimarama’s sentencing next week will be a significant moment for Fiji’s legal and political landscape. The outcome will likely set a precedent for future cases involving public officials and the abuse of power.
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