The anticipation for a favorable ruling in the case of Simione Rasova and Peceli Vosanibola was met with disappointment as the Suva Magistrate’s Court postponed the proceedings once more. Both defendants appeared in court yesterday, accompanied by Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) lawyer Josanne Pene, only to be informed that Magistrate Pulekeria Low was not yet prepared to issue a decision.
The next court date has been set for November 22. Rasova and Vosanibola, who are former members of the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA), face charges of abuse of office brought by FICAC. This marks the fifteenth postponement for Rasova’s case, where he is accused of providing false information to a public servant regarding his residence to illicitly gain financial benefits. Specifically, he allegedly claimed his permanent residence to be in Nasenivolau, Nabouwalu village, Ono, Kadavu Island, thereby obtaining $21,350 between July 2019 and April 2020.
On the other hand, Vosanibola’s case has been adjourned three times. He is charged with giving false information and securing financial advantage, allegedly stating that his residence was in Navuloa village, Bureta, Ovalau, enabling him to collect $19,749.50 between August 2019 and March 2020. He is also accused of violating the Parliamentary Remuneration Act 2014 by claiming ineligible travel and accommodation allowances.
The upcoming court dates for their respective rulings are set for October 30 for Rasova and October 31 for Vosanibola.
While the repeated delays may seem discouraging, it is essential to recognize the judicial system’s commitment to thoroughness in delivering justice. With each postponement, the court ensures that all evidence is carefully reviewed, which could ultimately lead to a more justified conclusion. This patience may just yield the clarity and resolution that both defendants and the public seek.
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