The Suva Magistrate’s Court has once again postponed the ruling regarding the ‘no case to answer’ plea for Simione Rasova and Peceli Vosanibola. Both individuals, former members of the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA), attended the hearing yesterday with their lawyer from the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), Josanne Pene, in hopes of receiving favorable news. Unfortunately, they were informed that Magistrate Pulekeria Low is still not prepared to deliver the ruling.
This delay pushes the next court date to November 22. For Rasova, this marks the 15th time the court has adjourned a decision in his case. He is facing a charge of providing false information to a public servant, with allegations that he misrepresented his residence to gain financial benefits. It is claimed that he falsely indicated his permanent residence as in Nasenivolau, Nabouwalu village, Ono, Kadavu Island, resulting in an illegal benefit of $21,350 received between July 2019 and April 2020.
In a separate case, Vosanibola has now seen his case postponed for the third time. He is facing charges of giving false information and obtaining a financial advantage, with claims he falsely asserted his permanent residence was in Navuloa village, Bureta, Ovalau, which allowed him to improperly claim $19,749.50. Furthermore, he is accused of violating the Parliamentary Remuneration Act 2014 by claiming travel and accommodation allowances improperly.
The upcoming court dates for the two accused individuals are set for October 30 for Rasova and October 31 for Vosanibola.
While the delay in rulings can be frustrating for the involved parties, it serves as a reminder of the judicial process, which emphasizes thorough assessment and potential for clarity in complicated cases. The ongoing attention to these matters highlights the commitment to transparency and accountability in public office, offering a hopeful outlook that justice will ultimately prevail.
This case illustrates the importance of due process and the legal provisions that protect both the rights of the accused and the integrity of public service. It is crucial for the judicial system to take the necessary time to carefully examine evidence and ensure that any decisions made are fair and just.
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