A lawyer representing a pastor recently convicted of sexually assaulting 12 boys between the ages of nine and 16 has sought additional time to prepare a revised appeal. This request was presented by attorney Tobia Ravuniwa from the Legal Aid Commission during a hearing held in the High Court in Suva last week, overseen by Justice Usaia Ratuvili.
The 43-year-old pastor is challenging both his conviction and the sentence handed down by Magistrate Seini Puamau last year. He was sentenced to nine and a half years in prison, with a non-parole period of seven years, following his conviction on multiple counts, including four counts of indecent assault, three counts of indecently insulting individuals, two counts of sexual assault with intent to commit rape, and one count each of sexual assault and attempted sexual assault. Magistrate Puamau labeled his behavior a “multiple sex crime spree” in the community where he served his pastoral role.
During the court proceedings, prosecutors Hezekiah Nofaga and Katarina Dugan represented the state. Justice Ratuvili is expected to revisit the case next month to examine the amended grounds for the appeal and issue further directives. In the meantime, the production order concerning the pastor remains in place, and the case has been adjourned until December 1.
This case has attracted significant public attention, highlighting urgent societal issues regarding the abuse of power and the necessity of protecting vulnerable children. The ongoing legal processes signify a commitment to delivering justice and reinforcing accountability among individuals in trusted positions. As these proceedings advance, there is a collective hope for justice for the young victims, emphasizing the need for enhanced safeguards against future abuses.