The hopes of Simione Rasova and Peceli Vosanibola receiving a ‘no case to answer’ ruling were thwarted once again as the Suva Magistrate’s Court postponed the proceedings. FICAC lawyer Josanne Pene attended the court session with the accused, seeking positive developments, but Magistrate Pulekeria Low indicated that the ruling was still not ready. Consequently, the case has been adjourned until November 22.
Both Rasova and Vosanibola, former members of the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA), have been charged with abuse of office by FICAC. Rasova’s case marks the 15th adjournment for his ruling. He faces allegations of providing false information to a public servant, specifically lying about his residence to gain financial benefits. It is claimed that he represented his permanent residence as being in Nasenivolau, Nabouwalu village, Ono, Kadavu Island, thus unlawfully receiving $21,350 from July 2019 to April 2020.
On the other hand, this marks the third adjournment for Vosanibola’s case, where he is charged with providing false information and obtaining financial advantage. He allegedly misrepresented his permanent residence as being in Navuloa village, Bureta, Ovalau, allowing him to wrongfully claim $19,749.50 between August 2019 and March 2020. He is also accused of breaching the Parliamentary Remuneration Act 2014 by claiming travel and accommodation allowances that he was not entitled to.
For Rasova, the next ruling is scheduled for October 30, while Vosanibola’s ruling will follow on October 31.
While delays are often frustrating, they also reflect the thoroughness of the judicial process, aiming for fair and just outcomes. As the case continues to unfold, there remains a sense of hope that justice will eventually be served, reinforcing the principle that legal proceedings, although prolonged, will lead to a resolution.
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