A 54-year-old man, previously convicted of raping his nine-year-old grandniece in 2022, is facing a delayed sentencing hearing scheduled for later this week. The man appeared in court in Suva, where his attorney, Tobia Ravuniwa from the Legal Aid Commission, requested more time for preparation.
Initially, the defendant had been charged with two counts of rape. However, Justice Dane Tuiqereqere acquitted him of one count pertaining to an alleged incident between February 1 and 28, 2022. The charges stem from an incident where the victim, now 11 years old, stated that the man assaulted her while she was retrieving her shoes, as well as during another occasion on August 28 after she returned home from school.
Prosecutor Shaheen Bibi represented the state in the hearing. The accused’s bail has been extended pending the adjourned case, which is set to reconvene on March 21.
Similar cases highlight the ongoing challenges faced in addressing sexual violence, particularly within families. For instance, a different 69-year-old man has been charged with raping a 10-year-old girl and is awaiting proceedings concerning his bail and relocation. These cases underscore the importance of the judicial system in providing justice for victims while ensuring the legal rights of the accused are also upheld.
As these cases progress through the legal system, there remains hope that thorough investigations and fair trials will promote greater accountability, support for victims, and ultimately contribute to a safer community.
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