Former army officer, Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba Mara, arrived in Fiji today – 12 years after seeking political asylum in Tonga.
It’s understood he will attend the installation of Ratu Epenisa Cakobau as Vunivalu Friday.
In May 2011, Lieutenant-Colonel Mara was commander of the Third Battalion Fiji Infantry Forces.
He was accused, along with Brigadier Pita Driti and Colonel Mohammed Aziz, of attempting to overthrow the government of Frank Bainimarama.
Driti was jailed on treason charges while Aziz assisted the prosecution and escaped trial.
The Tongan navy sent a patrol boat to extract Mara from Kadavu waters.
Mara has spent the last 12 years as an advisor to the Tongan King, to whom he is closely related.
He is the son of the late Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, former Fiji Prime Minister and President.
SOURCE: ISLANDS BUSINESS/PACNEWS
