Fiji coup leader Sitiveni Rabuka clear to contest poll

A Fiji appeal court threw out a corruption case against Sitiveni Rabuka, clearing the way for him to contest tomorrow’s election.

AUGUST 17, 2000 : Former Fijian PM General Sitivani Rabuka holds his book while at Australian War Memorial to address conference on South Paciffic defence issues, 17/08/00. Pic Michael Jones.P/

A Fiji appeal court threw out a corruption case against ­opposition leader Sitiveni Rabuka yesterday, clearing the way for him to contest tomorrow’s ­election.

Mr Rabuka, head of the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA), had been campaigning with the threat of disqualification hanging over him if he was convicted of making false ­financial declarations.

But the High Court in Suva backed a magistrates’ court decision to acquit the former prime minister, dismissing an appeal from the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption.

Chief Justice Anthony Gates said “essential elements were not proved, the appeal fails and must be dismissed”.

He also awarded Mr Rabuka costs of FJ$4000 ($2600).

SODELPA supporters were jubilant. “The court was full to the brim … Everyone is thrilled, crying with happiness. Just shouting and singing,” said party secretary Adi Qionibaravi

Mr Rabuka said he felt “great and getting better”. “I want to thank all of them”, he said.

He led two coups in the 1980s and served as prime minister from 1992 to 1999.

He is challenging the FijiFirst Party, whose leader Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama led a bloodless coup in 2006 and ruled by decree until winning a 2014 election with 32 of the 50 seats in parliament.

A pre-election media blackout began across the country yesterday. Six parties are contesting the election. Mr Bainimarama is favourite to retain office, with an approval rating of 68 per cent compared with Mr Rabuka’s 24 per cent.

AFP, AAP