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 did not appear for his scheduled hearing on Thursday.
Komaisavai, who is 52 years old, faces a charge of causing harm through electronic communication. The charges stem from allegations made on February 10, 2021, when he posted a message on Facebook that called for violence against the then Attorney-General, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, by stating that he would be killed.
During the court session, prosecutor Sharmila Lata informed Magistrate Jeremaia Savou that all witnesses for the prosecution, including Mr. Sayed-Khaiyum himself who was summoned to testify, were present. However, the defendant’s absence prompted the prosecutor to request that the trial proceed without him, a request that the court approved.
The case has now been adjourned to December 17, where a judgment will be rendered.
This incident underscores the serious implications of online speech and the responsibility that comes with it. In a time when digital communication is a common form of discourse, such cases remind society of the boundaries and legal ramifications associated with inciting harm.
As the case approaches its judgment date in December, there remains hope that positive dialogue and conflict resolution can emerge from such tense situations. Engaging in discussions that foster understanding could lead to a more harmonious society, highlighting the importance of respectful and constructive communication in public forums.
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