A trial date has been established for former Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) member Niko Nawaikula. Nawaikula is suing former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem and the Office of the Attorney-General for allegedly providing unlawful and negligent advice that led to his dismissal from Parliament by former Speaker Ratu Epeli Nailatikau in August 2021.
The dismissal was due to Nawaikula using a name in Parliament that did not match his birth certificate. While his birth certificate lists him as Nikolau Tuiqamea, he was known as Niko Nawaikula in Parliament. The matter was previously adjudicated by former Chief Justice Kamal Kumar, who found no issues and dismissed the case.
Following the dismissal, Nawaikula initiated legal action against Saneem and the Attorney-General’s office, arguing their advice regarding his removal was negligent and illegal. He appeared in the High Court in Suva yesterday with his new attorney, Sevuloni Valenitabua.
During the hearing, Valenitabua informed the court that they had received the requested plea from the defense and were ready to set a hearing date, stating they would call only one witness. After both parties indicated there were no further issues, the court adjourned the case, scheduling the trial for April 28-30, 2025.