The High Court in Suva has mandated that Veronica Malani’s attorney be present at the next court session to schedule a hearing date. During a recent appearance before Justice Usaia Ratuvili, Malani was without her lawyer, Sitiveni Raikanikoda, who was occupied with another case at the Nasinu Magistrate’s Court.
Defense attorney Ronal Singh expressed frustration over Raikanikoda’s repeated absences from court proceedings, highlighting that they had already submitted their strike-out application and other required documents, indicating readiness to establish a hearing date. Singh noted that despite Raikanikoda’s absence, no potential hearing dates had been proposed.
The Attorney-General’s office has been allotted a period of 14 days to respond to Malani’s claim, which amounts to $800,244 million. Additionally, lawyer Mohammed Saneem remarked that they were not ready to make the same application as it had not been appropriately addressed.
Justice Ratuvili has adjourned the case until the following Wednesday, when a hearing date will be determined. Malani’s lawsuit implicates 11 individuals associated with the investigation into the 1987 bombing case, seeking substantial damages.
This case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in the legal process, but it also demonstrates the judicial system’s commitment to ensuring that all parties are adequately represented. As the situation develops, it may pave the way for significant legal discussions surrounding historical events and their ongoing impact.
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