In a recent court hearing regarding the appeal of former parliamentarian Niko Nawaikula, neither Nawaikula nor the representatives from the Attorney-General’s office and the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) were present before the Suva High Court. The case was called by Justice Pita Bulamainaivalu, who noted the absence of all parties involved and subsequently issued a notice for an adjourned hearing.
Earlier this year, Nawaikula had sought constitutional redress concerning a matter involving a magistrate, which he claimed was unfairly directed to the High Court by the late former chief justice, Kamal Kumar. However, his application was struck out, leading to Justice Bulamainaivalu ordering Nawaikula to pay $2,000 to the Attorney-General’s office, while FICAC incurred no costs due to the unique circumstances of the case.
In his ruling, Justice Bulamainaivalu indicated that Nawaikula’s appeal constituted sufficient alternative remedies and deemed the constitutional redress action an abuse of the court’s process. The case is now set to resume on November 29.
This situation highlights the complexities of legal processes and the importance of representation in court. As the next hearing approaches, it presents an opportunity for Nawaikula and the associated parties to clarify their positions and potentially move towards a resolution.
Summary: Niko Nawaikula’s appeal hearing saw no appearances from involved parties, leading to an adjournment until November 29. Previously, his application for constitutional redress was unsuccessful, with Justice Bulamainaivalu emphasizing the availability of alternative remedies through the Court of Appeal.
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