Suva Magistrate Seini Puamau has granted absolute discharge to former Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama in the University of the South Pacific case.
Magistrate Puamau had taken into account health issues concerning Bainimarama.
With the absolute discharge, Bainimarama’s finding of guilt is made but no conviction is registered.
Character reference heard in court were from former Presidents Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, Jioji Konrote and former RFMF Commander Viliame Naupoto.
Magistrate Puamau also noted that Bainimarama cooperated during the trial.
In her ruling, she also considered the health of the former Prime Minister and read Dr Joji Malani’s medical report.
Puamau highlighted that Dr Malani’s medical report indicates that if he is put in jail then there will be severe health consequences.
Second accused in the case, suspended Police Commissioner Brigadier-General Sitiveni Qiliho has been fined $1,500.
This has to be paid within 30 days and failure will result in 30 days prison.
A conviction will not be recorded against him.
Magistrate Puamau ruled that there is no evidence that Qiliho had directed Police officers Neiko and Dass to close the case for personal gain.
She stated that a fine without conviction is the best for this case.
State lawyer Laisani Tabuakuro said that the State would appeal the sentence.
