Seventeen people including three chiefs and a former assistant minister in the Qarase government who are charged with sedition and inciting communal antagonism have been released on bail.
The accused appeared at a special court sitting in Lautoka this morning.
The seventeen are former assistant minister Nanise Nagusuca, Waisea Duailima, Isikeli Kabakoro, Ratu Epeli Niudamu, Sailasa Malani, Sereima Rokodi,Laisiasa Mocevakaca, Emosi Toga, Waisake Racaca, Samuela Ligabalavu, Mikaele Gonerara, former Rakiraki special administrator Seini Raiko, retired civil servant Josefa Natau, Sulueti Waqalala, Ulaiyasi Tuivomo, Apolosi Qalilawa and Ilisapeci Natau.
They were arrested and charged yesterday afternoon following a police investigation into certain activities in the Ra district last year.
It is alleged they tried to set up an illegal state.
A plea has been deferred and the accused have each been released on $1000 bail with strict conditions.
They will reappear in court on July 27.
In a statement yesterday, Director of Public Prosecutions, Christopher Pryde said further charges may be brought against other people who allegedly masterminded the operation, including people that may have left the country.
