Former British Army soldier Isimeli Baleiwai has been given the opportunity to work while he awaits the hearing of his appeal against a military conviction that has subjected him to deportation to Fiji.
The chief executive of United Kingdom based charity group Veteran Aid, Dr Hugh Milroy says Baleiwai was initially denied all benefits.
“Hopefully that a good sign because the norm is – in his situation – you would not be allowed any benefits and you would not be allowed to work. It’s remarkable – he has been allowed to work.”
Dr Milroy says the organization is looking after Baleiwai and his family.
Baleiwai’s hearing before a full jury will be held next month.
His application for citizenship was refused by the United Kingdom Border Agency due to a military offence he committed while he was in the army.
The former Fijian from Beqa is appealing the military conviction that has denied him the right to stay in the UK with his family.
Balewai has been in the British Army for 13 years and has a British wife and two children.
