Suva lawyer Tanya Waqanika is scheduled to enter her plea next month in the Suva Magistrates Court regarding charges filed by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). She faces one count of publicly opposing a political party, which contravenes the Political Parties Act.
The charge stems from allegations that Waqanika expressed opposition to the political party SODELPA on or around April 19, 2024, while acting as a public officer, specifically as a board member of Investment Fiji and Telecom Fiji Limited.
During a court appearance this morning before Resident Magistrate Yogesh Prasad, FICAC State Counsel Rusiate Doidoi indicated that amendments had been made to the charges to correct the spelling of Waqanika’s name. He also noted that additional documents, including those related to her role as a director of Telecom Fiji Limited, have been submitted and served.
Doidoi raised concerns over Waqanika’s public comments about the case, describing them as misleading and urging that as a senior counsel, she should avoid discussing ongoing legal matters to ensure the integrity of the judicial process. He requested that the court oversees the proceedings closely.
In response, Magistrate Prasad ordered Waqanika to refrain from making any public statements regarding the case. The proceedings have been postponed until the 24th of next month, when Waqanika is expected to present her plea.
This case highlights the delicate balance between public discourse and legal proceedings, an essential consideration for legal professionals engaged in high-profile matters. The court’s directive aims to maintain clarity and fairness in the judicial system as the case progresses.
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