The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has firmly opposed the second bail request from Ledua Vakaloloma, a 24-year-old facing murder charges in connection with the death of Lemeki Duidomo, who died in April four years ago. Vakaloloma appeared in the High Court in Suva before Justice Siainiu Fa’alogo Bull.
Previously, Vakaloloma’s initial bail application was denied, prompting him to file a second request. In this latest application, he expressed his intention to represent himself during the bail hearing. DPP attorney Pooja Mishra emphasized that for Vakaloloma to secure bail, he must demonstrate a significant change in circumstances since his initial application.
Justice Bull granted Ms. Mishra’s request for a week to prepare a written response to the objection. In response, Vakaloloma acknowledged he had primarily focused on legal arguments but overlooked the necessity to present any changes in his circumstances. The court approved his request for seven days to submit this crucial information, after which the prosecution will have a similar timeframe to respond.
The courtroom heard details surrounding Duidomo’s untimely death, where he had set out to attend a rugby game with friends on April 4. They later went to a motel, where tensions rose with another group, leading to a physical altercation. During this incident, Duidomo was reportedly struck with a metal object. Justice Bull reminded Vakaloloma to prepare thoroughly for his upcoming bail hearing scheduled for December 5.
In summary, the case illustrates the ongoing legal battle surrounding a serious criminal charge, highlighting the importance of due process and judicial scrutiny in serious matters of public safety. Both sides are working within the framework of the law to ensure that justice is served, which brings a glimmer of hope for a thorough examination of the facts in the case. As the hearing date approaches, there is a collective expectation that all relevant information will be considered fairly in court.
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