The Suva Magistrate Court has not yet determined the venue for the trial of former Assistant Health Minister Alexander O’Connor. O’Connor appeared before Magistrate Pulekeria Low with three counts regarding the misuse of state resources for campaigning.
It was alleged that on November 23, 2022, O’Connor engaged in campaign activities and distributed FijiFirst candidate flyers at the Tukavesi Health Centre in Savusavu while serving in public office. During the proceedings, Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) lawyer Rajiv Pathak updated the court that the Pre-Trial Conference (PTC) had been concluded and requested a hearing date.
Since this case is associated with Savusavu, discussions about the appropriate trial venue emerged. Mr. Pathak contended that the matter should be handled in Savusavu, while defense attorney Matalita Koroibola suggested that PTCs be managed in Suva when the case was before Resident Magistrate Ms. Kiran.
Magistrate Low clarified that only the Chief Magistrate has the authority to transfer case files. Both parties have been instructed to file and serve the finalized Pre-Trial Conference minutes by the end of business yesterday.
The case has been postponed until October 17 for a mention to establish a hearing date and decide the trial venue. O’Connor’s bail has been renewed.