A trial date has been established for the case involving former Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) member Niko Nawaikula. Nawaikula has initiated a lawsuit against the former Supervisor of Elections, Mohammed Saneem, and the Office of the Attorney-General, claiming that they acted unlawfully and negligently when advising former Speaker Ratu Epeli Nailatikau to dismiss him from Parliament.
This legal matter stems from his removal from Parliament in August 2021, which was due to his use of a name not reflected on his birth certificate. His official birth certificate lists the name Nikolau Tuiqamea, while he was using the name Niko Nawaikula in Parliament. The previous Chief Justice, Kamal Kumar, addressed this issue, determining that no problems existed at that time.
Following the dismissal of that case, Nawaikula sought to hold the officials accountable for what he alleges was negligent and illegal advice regarding his removal. He appeared before Justice Usaia Ratuvili at the High Court in Suva yesterday, accompanied by his new lawyer, Sevuloni Valenitabua.
During the court proceedings, Valenitabua informed the court that they had received the requested copy of the plea from the defense and were prepared to set a hearing date. He also indicated that they would call only one witness during the trial. After both sides confirmed there were no additional issues, the court adjourned the case until the trial date was set.
The court has scheduled the trial for April 28-30, 2025.