The High Court in Lautoka has confirmed the nine-month prison sentence of Apimeleki Tola, a former high school teacher and current Chairman of the Native Lands Commission. Justice Riyaz Hamza announced the decision on December 16, stating that Tola’s appeal lacked merit and upholding the previous ruling from the Magistrates’ Court.
Tola had been convicted in absentia on September 22, 2025, facing charges that included two counts of serious assault and one count of damaging property. The charges stemmed from an incident that took place in Lautoka on October 2, 2022, during which Tola assaulted Police Constable Zoheb Alfaaz Ali, resisted arrest from Corporal Sanjay Prasad, and caused damage exceeding $5,000 to a Fiji Police Force vehicle.
In his appeal, Tola argued that the trial should not have proceeded in his absence, claiming a violation of his constitutional rights. However, Justice Hamza pointed out that Tola had consistently failed to attend court despite being warned about the implications of his absence. The judge ruled that the magistrate was justified in continuing with the trial, reinforcing the responsibility of defendants to appear in court when summoned.
Justice Hamza further noted that there was “absolutely no doubt” regarding Tola’s identification as the offender, as confirmed by police witnesses. The High Court ultimately dismissed the appeal, maintaining the stop-departure order and the original sentence, thus reaffirming the importance of judicial process and accountability. This decision illustrates the court’s dedication to upholding justice and the rule of law within the community.