A High Court in Suva has scheduled a hearing to address the application from Neelraj Sharma, the former Director of Public Prosecutions. This application pertains to compensation claims totaling $800,244 made by Veronica Malani against eleven individuals involved in the investigation of a bomb case from 1987.
During a court session presided over by Justice Usaia Ratuvili, all attorneys were present. Sharma’s legal representative, Ronal Singh, stated they were prepared to appoint a hearing date, but Malani was granted additional time to ensure her lawyer, Sitiveni Raikanikoda, could attend.
The hearing is set for December 11, where all parties must submit their arguments before the date. Raikanikoda raised concerns regarding the defense’s failure to adhere to civil procedure protocols, noting that rather than filing a statement of defense after being issued a writ of summons, they moved directly to file a strike out application.
Furthermore, he questioned the legal representation of retired officials Rusiate Tudravu, a former acting Police Commissioner, and Biu Matavou, a retired Assistant Police Commissioner, who are named as the fifth and sixth defendants in the case. Raikanikoda argued they should have independent legal counsel and be participating in the submission process, given the nature of the lawsuit. Despite these concerns, Justice Ratuvili indicated that the trial would proceed regardless of their appearance.
This case highlights the complexities of legal proceedings and the importance of following proper protocols in civil cases. As the hearing approaches, all parties must ensure they are adequately prepared, which may help expedite the resolution of this long-standing issue.
Overall, the legal deliberations could provide clarity on the case, fostering progress towards justice for those involved in the 1987 bombing case and upholding the integrity of the legal system.
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