The Suva Magistrate’s Court has taken action against Isikeli Komaisavai, the former vice-president of the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) for the Nasinu constituency, by issuing a bench warrant. This follows his absence from a scheduled court hearing on Thursday.
Komaisavai, 52, faces charges related to causing harm through electronic communication. Specifically, he allegedly made comments on Facebook on February 10, 2021, where he called for the assassination of the then Attorney-General, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, while also implying he would be killed.
During the proceedings, police prosecutor Sharmila Lata informed Magistrate Jeremaia Savou that all witnesses were present, but Komaisavai was missing. The court permitted the trial to proceed in his absence.
Notably, among the witnesses scheduled to testify against Komaisavai is Mr. Sayed-Khaiyum himself. The case has been adjourned and is set to resume on December 17, when a judgment will be rendered.
This situation highlights the ongoing challenges surrounding the use of social media and its implications for communication and accountability. As the legal process unfolds, it will be crucial to observe how this case may influence discourse and behavior on such platforms.
Looking ahead, this case may serve as an important reminder of the responsibilities that come with social media engagement and the potential consequences of inflammatory statements.
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