Former prime minister Voreqe Bainimarama and suspended commissioner of police Sitiveni Qiliho yesterday pleaded not guilty to abuse of office charges relating to the termination of contract of two police officers three years ago.
The duo appeared before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou. Mr Bainimarama is charged with unwarranted demands made by a public officer between May 21 and August 18.
He is accused of demanding that former acting commissioner of police Rusiate Tudravu terminate the services of Sgt Penieli Ratei and Constable Tomasi Naulu.
The particulars of the offense stated that Mr Tudravu was told he would have to resign if he did not terminate the officers’ work contract.
Mr Qiliho is also charged with two counts of abuse of office for reviewing the disciplinary action decision made by Mr Tudravu.
The prosecution told the court Mr Qiliho was making partial admissions of his recorded interview.
There were no admissions from Mr Bainimarama.
Meanwhile, defence lawyer Devanesh Sharma asked the court whether Mr Qiliho “is actually a person employed in the civil service”.
“Abuse of office has to be a civil servant,” he said, adding he would decide by the next court date whether he would challenge this issue.
Bail has been extended to both the accused and the case has been adjourned to May 2.
