FICAC Closes Complaint Against Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama

The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has cleared former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama of any wrongdoing following an investigation into allegations that he continued to act as leader of the FijiFirst Party after his conviction in 2024.

The complaint alleged that despite his conviction for attempting to pervert the course of justice, Bainimarama continued issuing instructions to FijiFirst Members of Parliament.

The allegations stemmed from a letter he signed on 30 May 2024 in his capacity as party leader, addressed to the Speaker of Parliament.

FICAC’s investigation found that Bainimarama had been issued a notice of removal from the National Register of Voters on 30 May 2024, but he failed to respond within the 14-day period. Consequently, he was officially removed from the register on 14 June 2024.

However, the commission noted that as of 30 May 2024 — the date he signed the letter — Bainimarama was still a registered voter and held the position of office holder within FijiFirst. Under Section 5(1)(d) of the Political Parties Act, he was therefore still legally eligible to serve as party leader.

FICAC concluded that Bainimarama’s actions did not amount to a breach of Section 27(1)(b) or (c) of the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act 2013. As a result, no charges will be filed.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to independence, stating that all cases are assessed impartially and on their legal merits.