The Suva Magistrate’s Court has determined that former assistant project manager of the Water Authority of Fiji, Vilimaina Kalokalo, will face trial. On Monday, Magistrate Pulekeria Low concluded that the prosecution provided sufficient and admissible evidence against Ms. Kalokalo.
Following the conclusion of the prosecution’s case, Ms. Kalokalo had sought to have the charges dismissed on the grounds of a no-case-to-answer motion. However, Magistrate Low found that the evidence presented could lead to a reasonable conviction.
Ms. Kalokalo is accused of facilitating fraudulent payments totaling $13,348.19 linked to crop compensation claims associated with the Painapiu Sewage Project. The ruling indicates that, according to the prosecution’s evidence, there is a viable case for a tribunal to consider.
Although Ms. Kalokalo is not obligated to present a defense at this stage, she retains the right to appeal the decision within the next 28 days. She is represented by her attorney, Nemani Tuifagalele, while Prosecutor Joshua Francis Prasad acts on behalf of the State.
This case underscores the ongoing efforts to address financial integrity within public projects, illustrating the judicial system’s engagement in scrutinizing and addressing alleged conflicts and fraud.
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