Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho have been charged with inciting mutiny and spent the night at Totogo Police Station.
Allegations Stem from Post-Election Events
The two were transported in handcuffs from the CID Headquarters in Toorak to Totogo Police Station, according to reports. Acting Police Commissioner Mesake Waqa confirmed both men were questioned regarding the alleged mutiny and are scheduled to appear in court today.
The charges reportedly relate to incidents following the 2022 general elections. Following the election on December 22nd, 2022, then-Police Commissioner Qiliho announced a decision to request assistance from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces to maintain security and stability.
Qiliho stated this decision was made in response to reports of threats against minority groups who expressed fear following recent political developments. A meeting was held that day involving then-Prime Minister Bainimarama, Minister for Defence, National Security and Policing Inia Seruiratu, RFMF Commander and Director General National Security Major General Jone Kalouniwai, and Qiliho.
The group agreed that RFMF personnel would assist Police in maintaining law and order amid growing concerns about racial tension.
In March 2024, Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai revealed in an interview that he received calls after the 2022 general elections requesting the removal of certain individuals from their positions. Kalouniwai described this period as a “testing time” for the RFMF and affirmed his commitment to upholding the rule of law, despite attempts to influence the RFMF to take illegal actions against the government.
Further updates will be provided as they become available.
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