The trial of 14 people facing  charges in the Nadroga sedition case begins today at the Lautoka High Court.

The accused and their lawyers appeared before Justice Sunil Sharma yesterday and were allowed a day extra to sort out matters.

Justice Sharma indicated to the court that he wanted a smooth trial and asked the defence team and the Director of Public Prosecutions team led by Lee Burney to be ready today for the hearing to begin.

On October 10, 2014, the group allegedly committed an act with seditious intention by signing a document headed ‘Nadroga-Navosa Sovereign Christian State’, with the alleged seditious intention of bringing into hatred or contempt or to excite disaffection against the State.

A total of 16 people were originally charged. But two of the accused, Alifereti Gonewai and Raicula Rokovou, have died.

The  remaining 14 are: Ratu Inoke Tasere, Jimi Koroibete, Seru Kunalagi, Adi Cuvu Gavidi Atama, Ulaiasi Rabua Tuivono, Peniasi Naqau, Semi Tanikili, Ratu Osea Bolawaqatabu, Ratu Tevita Khaikhainabokolawale Makutu, Mosese Navaci, Eroni Rikoriko, Alifereti Nakuinivou, , Adi Vasemaca Veikunekibulu Gonewai and Jorama Ratulevu.

Defence lawyer Sala Kunatuba will represent Adi Cuvu. Filimoni Vosarogo is representing Naqau while Aman Ravindra Singh will appear for the remaining 12.

Edited by Mohammed Ali

Feedback:  charles.chambers@fijisun.com.fj