Justin Ho’s request for a closed court hearing at the High Court in Lautoka has been denied. The application was submitted by his lawyer, Iqbal Khan, who argued that threats against Ho have affected both him and his family, necessitating the hearing without media and public presence for their safety. However, Justice Aruna Aluthge rejected the application, expressing confidence in the protection provided by authorities, particularly the Fiji Corrections Service.
During the proceedings, Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku highlighted that they were unaware of the application prior to the court session and indicated that they could have taken legal action regarding the alleged threats against Ho. The trial is ongoing, with defense counsels expected to present evidence today.
This case follows previous discussions surrounding judicial fairness in Ho’s ongoing trial for drug trafficking offenses related to a large seizure of methamphetamine. The court has faced scrutiny regarding the treatment of Ho compared to other defendants, with claims of bias in bail conditions noted in earlier hearings. As the trial unfolds, it remains vital to maintain public confidence in the judicial process and ensure that due process is upheld for all involved parties.
The commitment of the judiciary to uphold legal standards is crucial in navigating these significant drug-related allegations, providing hope that justice will be served while reinforcing community safety. Each step taken throughout this trial reflects the broader efforts to combat drug trafficking in Fiji, emphasizing accountability and transparency within the legal system.
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