By RNZ.co.nz and is republished with permission
The sentencing of Fiji’s former prime minister Frank Bainimarama will take place at the Magistrates Court in the capital Suva on Thursday.
Bainimarama, an ex-military commander and a coup leader, will be sentenced alongside suspended police commissioner – also an ex-military officer – Sitiveni Qiliho.
The former PM was found guilty guilty of one count of attempt to pervert the course of justice and Qiliho was found guilty of one count of abuse of office by the High Court on 14 March.
Bainimarama is facing up to five years in jail while Qiliho is facing up to 10 years.
Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew is calling for Fijians to maintain order ahead of the sentencing at 11.00am local time.
“Our focus is on ensuring there are no disturbances or disruptions and reiterate the call to respect the rule of law and let the court process take its course,” he said.
