Former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Manoa Kamikamica, will have his application for a stay of criminal proceedings heard in the Suva High Court in March 2024. This development follows a court session today where a timetable was established for submissions related to Kamikamica’s request for a permanent stay.
The full hearing is set for March 25 at 9:30 AM, during which the High Court will review significant arguments regarding the potential dismissal of charges against Kamikamica. The Fijian Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has been mandated to submit its supporting affidavit by January 14, while Kamikamica’s defense team is required to respond by February 4. A pre-hearing check will take place on February 5 to confirm that all necessary documents have been adequately filed.
Kamikamica faces allegations of perjury and giving false information to a public servant, which are linked to investigations from the Commission of Inquiry into the previous appointment of FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali. The defense, represented by counsel Wylie Clarke, has argued that the charges are invalid, claiming procedural flaws in the Acting FICAC Commissioner’s appointment, particularly noting that the Judicial Services Commission was not consulted.
Furthermore, FICAC’s Acting Commissioner, Lavi Rokoika, has informed the court of plans to engage independent counsel due to allegations made against her in the supporting affidavit for this case. This situation reflects ongoing complexities within the Fijian political and judicial landscape, highlighting the importance of procedural integrity in public service appointments. As the hearings approach, the public and stakeholders will be closely watching the developments surrounding this high-profile case.
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