Convicted murderer Apisai Madigibuli will serve life imprisonment with a minimum term of 20 years, 9 months and 3 weeks before he can be considered for pardon.

In sentencing, Judge, Justice Dane Tuiqereqere says the killing was premeditated, violent and committed in a domestic violence setting in the presence of the couple’s young daughter.

Madigibuli and Baravilala were married and had two daughters together, aged four and six.

By April 2024, the couple had separated, and Baravilala had moved to Suva.

Baravilala had entered a new relationship and was about 20 weeks pregnant at the time of her death.

Justice Tuiqereqere found that Madigibuli resented the separation and his wife’s new relationship.

Madigibuli travelled from Nadi to Suva intending to kill her. Before leaving, he purchased a small knife and sharpened the blunt side as well to make it easier to stab her.

Justice Tuiqereqere adds the attack on Baravilala’s neck was violent and forceful, which caused her death.

He found the murder was motivated by resentment, revenge and jealousy.

The Judge told Madigibuli that Kitiana was not his possession and was entitled to make her own choices about her relationships.

The court also considered the lasting trauma inflicted on the couple’s young daughter, who witnessed the murder and would likely carry the psychological scars for the rest of her life.

Madigibuli has shown no remorse throughout the proceedings.

The Judge considered that although Madigibuli admitted to the crime during the police interview, he continued to contest the charge during trial, forcing the victim’s family to relive the traumatic events by giving evidence.

He has 30 days to appeal the decision.