Former Fiji PM Frank Bainimarama, left, and Sitiveni Qiliho will face trial in July. Photo: AFP / Leon Lord
Ex-Fiji Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama and suspended police commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho are due to face trial in July over one count each of abuse of office allegations, a local court has heard.
The former strongmen leader and Qiliho were held in a Suva police cell in March over allegations relating to interfering with an active police investigation.
They were bailed at the Suva Magistrates Court with strict conditions, including being ordered not to leave the country.
"The charges relate to a complaint laid with the police by the University of the South Pacific in 2019 in relation to the activities of former staff members," the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution said in a statement.
"They are alleged to have arbitrarily and in abuse of the authority of their respective offices directed for the termination of an active investigation."
Resident Magistrate Seini Puamau has set the trial date from July 17-28 on Thursday.
A pre-trial hearing will take place on June 19.
Bail has been extended for both men.
The former PM said outside court on March 11 that he will fight the charge for his reputation and for democracy.
