How did Bainimarama and Qiliho allegedly interfere with the police probe?

Question

Accepted Answer

Bainimarama and Qiliho Used Influence to Halt USP Probe

Former Fijian Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama and ex-Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho allegedly interfered with a police investigation into financial irregularities at the University of the South Pacific (USP) by using their influence to sideline the probe. This intervention occurred in July 2020, when university staff had initiated a whistleblowing effort after discovering what they described as a suspicious network of bonus payments, promotions, and pay rises within the institution.
Sidelining the Investigation

The core of the alleged interference involved Bainimarama, who was the Prime Minister at the time, and Qiliho, who served as the Police Commissioner. They reportedly leveraged their positions of authority to halt the police's examination of the financial activities at USP. This action effectively stopped the investigation from proceeding into the alleged irregularities reported by university staff.
Background of the Probe

The police investigation was prompted by internal whistleblowers within the University of the South Pacific. These individuals had reportedly uncovered a web of alleged financial impropriety, including suspicious bonus payments, unwarranted promotions, and inflated pay rises. Their attempt to bring these issues to light initiated the subsequent police inquiry that was ultimately curtailed.
Legal Ramifications for Interference

The actions of Bainimarama and Qiliho led to legal consequences. In a separate but related case, Bainimarama was sentenced to one year in prison for perverting the course of justice, with the court finding he had used his political influence to quash the police probe. Qiliho received a two-year prison sentence in the same case for his role in the interference. Both men have maintained their innocence regarding the charges.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

How did Bainimarama and Qiliho allegedly interfere with the police probe?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends