The prosecution has expressed concerns regarding comments made by Suva lawyer Tanya Waqanika about her criminal charge in the Suva Magistrate’s Court. Senior prosecutor Joseph Work raised these issues before Justice Siainiu Fa’alogo Bull, aiming to ensure they are formally noted in the court record.
Justice Bull is overseeing Waqanika’s application for a permanent stay of her lower court proceedings. Waqanika faces charges under the Political Parties Act, specifically for publicly opposing a political party.
During the proceedings, defense lawyer Barbara Malimali highlighted a significant aspect of their application, which questions the legitimacy of Acting FICAC Commissioner Lavi Rokoika’s appointment. Court documents reveal that Waqanika is seeking a declaration asserting that Rokoika’s appointment is illegal, null, and void.
The case has been adjourned until March 20 for further hearings, with critical legal interpretations at stake regarding the appointments within the FICAC and the implications under the Political Parties Act. As this case unfolds, it continues to draw attention to the complexities of legal interpretations within Fijian politics.