Lawyer Wylie Clarke has labeled the charges against his client, former Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica, as flawed and lacking credible evidence. Kamikamica appeared in the Suva Magistrates Court, facing allegations of perjury and providing false information to a public servant, stemming from statements he reportedly made during his government service.
The charges were brought forth by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) and were recently sanctioned by Acting Commissioner Lavi Rokoika. In court, Clarke argued that the accusations hold no factual basis and criticized their evidentiary support. He noted that he had communicated his concerns to FICAC and is awaiting a formal response.
Clarke informed the court that Kamikamica is currently overseas on official business but is expected to return to Fiji today. Consequently, the case was adjourned until Friday for further mention. Notably, Kamikamica stepped down from his posts as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for External Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications just prior to this court appearance.
This legal predicament is part of ongoing scrutiny tied to the investigation into the appointment of former FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali, which has raised significant questions regarding governance and integrity within Fiji’s political framework. Many citizens are hopeful that the ongoing inquiries may catalyze essential reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and restoring public faith in political institutions.
While facing serious allegations, Kamikamica’s cooperative stance with the investigation may ultimately contribute to broader changes in the political landscape of Fiji, reinforcing the importance of accountability and ethical governance.