The Suva Magistrate Court has yet to determine the location for the trial of former Assistant Health Minister Alexander O’Connor. O’Connor appeared before Magistrate Pulekeria Low in court yesterday, facing three counts related to the misuse of state resources for campaign purposes.
The allegations claim that on November 23, 2022, while serving in public office, O’Connor engaged in campaign activities and distributed FijiFirst candidate flyers at the Tukavesi Health Centre in Savusavu. During the proceedings, Rajiv Pathak, a lawyer representing the Fiji Independent Commission against Corruption (FICAC), informed the court that the Pre-Trial Conference had been completed and a hearing date was being requested.
As this case pertains to Savusavu, questions regarding the trial’s venue were raised. Pathak contended that it should be heard in Savusavu, while defense attorney Matalita Koroibola argued that PTCs should be processed in Suva when the matter appeared before Resident Magistrate Ms. Kiran. Magistrate Low clarified that only the Chief Magistrate had the authority to transfer the case files.
Both parties were instructed to submit and serve the finalized minutes of the Pre-Trial Conference by the end of business yesterday. The case has been postponed until October 17 for further mention to establish a hearing date and confirm the trial venue. O’Connor’s bail has been extended.