The Suva Magistrate’s Court has issued a bench warrant for Isikeli Komaisavai, the former vice-president of the Nasinu constituency for the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA), after he failed to appear at his scheduled hearing. Komaisavai, 52, faces charges related to causing harm through electronic communication.
The accusations stem from a Facebook comment made on February 10, 2021, in which Komaisavai reportedly called for the assassination of then Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, as well as asserting that he would also be killed.
During the court proceedings, Police prosecutor Sharmila Lata informed Magistrate Jeremaia Savou that all witnesses for the State were present except for the accused. Lata subsequently requested that the trial continue in Komaisavai’s absence, a motion that was granted by the court.
Among the witnesses set to testify was Mr. Sayed-Khaiyum himself. The case has been rescheduled to December 17, at which time a judgment will be delivered.
The legal issue at hand highlights the importance of responsible speech in the digital age, particularly with the prevalence of social media, where comments can have far-reaching consequences. This case serves as a reminder of the accountability individuals hold for their statements online.
The focus now shifts to the upcoming hearing in December, where a resolution to this matter will be sought, and it is hoped that the judicial process will bring clarity to the situation.
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