The High Court in Suva has scheduled a hearing concerning the strike-out application brought forth by Neelraj Sharma, the former Director of Public Prosecutions. This application connects to compensation claims amounting to $800,244 made by Veronica Malani against eleven individuals involved in the investigation process of the alleged bombing case from 1987, which resurfaced in 2020.
During the court session on Wednesday, all lawyers, including Sharma’s representative Ronal Singh, were present before Justice Usaia Ratuvili. Singh communicated to the court that they were prepared for a hearing date, but Justice Ratuvili granted additional time to Malani to ensure her attorney, Sitiveni Raikanikoda, could attend.
The hearing is set for December 11, where all parties are instructed to submit their documents prior to the hearing. Raikanikoda raised concerns regarding the defense’s failure to follow appropriate civil procedure, highlighting that none of the defense attorneys filed a statement of defense after being issued a writ of summons, opting instead to move directly to a strike-out application.
Furthermore, Raikanikoda questioned the legal representation for former acting Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu and retired assistant Police Commissioner Biu Matavou, the fifth and sixth defendants. Noting that they are retired government employees, Raikanikoda asked whether they should secure a legal representative and file submissions themselves, considering the lawsuit implicates them as well. Justice Ratuvili clarified that the trial would proceed regardless of their appearance at this stage.
This ongoing legal proceedings showcase the complexities involved in judicial processes, especially in cases with historical significance. As the December hearing approaches, there is hope that all parties involved will have the opportunity to present their arguments fully, ensuring a fair examination of the claims and the defendants’ rights.
Leave a comment