FICAC confirms that no criminal charges will be initiated against former Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama after a complaint alleged that Bainimarama, despite being convicted for the offence of attempting to pervert the course of justice, continued to act as the Leader of the FijiFirst Party and issued instructions to its Members of Parliament.
FICAC determined that Bainimarama was still a registered voter and held the position of Office Holder within the FijiFirst Party at the time he signed the letter on 30th May 2024.
The Commission says Bainimarama was still legally eligible to serve as Party Leader under Section 5(1)(d) of the Political Parties Act.
It confirms the circumstances do not constitute an offence under Section 27(1)(b) and (c) of the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act 2013.
Bainimarama was convicted by the High Court on 14th March 2024.
On 30th May 2024, he signed a letter titled “Fiji First Letter to the Speaker of Parliament: Re Notice Pursuant to Section 63 of the Fijian Constitution” in his capacity as the Leader of FijiFirst.
FICAC’s investigation revealed that Bainimarama was served a “Notice of Removal from the National Register of Voters” dated 30th May 2024.
However, he did not respond within the required 14 day period, resulting in his removal from the National Register of Voters on 14th June 2024, in accordance with Section 13 (1) – (4) of the Electoral (Registration of Voters) Act 2012.
FICAC says subsequently, the “List of Removed Persons from the National Register of Voters for the period 1st January 2024 to 31st December 2024” was officially published on 14th February 2025, pursuant to Section 13 (5) of the same Act.
FICAC reiterates its commitment to acting independently and without fear or favour in all matters.
