A trial date has been established for the case involving former member of the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA), Niko Nawaikula. Nawaikula is suing the former Supervisor of Elections, Mohammed Saneem, along with the Office of the Attorney-General, for allegedly unlawful and negligent actions in advising the former Speaker, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, which led to his dismissal from Parliament.
This situation dates back to August 2021, when Nawaikula was removed from Parliament for using a name not found on his birth certificate. His official document lists him as Nikolau Tuiqamea, but he used the name Niko Nawaikula in Parliament. The issue was previously addressed by former Chief Justice Kamal Kumar, who found no concerns regarding the matter.
Following the dismissal of his initial case, Nawaikula took further action, filing a lawsuit for what he claims was negligent and illegal advice resulting in his removal. On Tuesday, he appeared before Justice Usaia Ratuvili at the High Court in Suva with new legal representation, Sevuloni Valenitabua.
During the court proceedings, Valenitabua informed that they had received the requested plea documents from the defense and were prepared to move forward with scheduling a hearing. He noted that only one witness would be called by the defense. After both parties indicated there were no additional issues, the court adjourned the proceedings, scheduling the trial for April 28-30, 2025.