The psychiatrist evaluating murder accused, Korotolu Tasese, wants to interview his family members, the High Court in Lautoka heard on Tuesday.

This was the reason given for the delay in the court receiving a psychiatric report from St Giles Hospital in Suva.

Tasere appeared before Justice Sunil Sharma and was represented by Legal Aid Commission lawyer Esiteri Radrole. The state was represented by Simione Seruvatu.

Tasere is alleged to have assaulted his elderly father at their home at Draubuta Village in Navosa in July 2021 resulting in his death.

It is alleged that Tasere was drunk when he assaulted his father as he lay on his bed.

The victim who was in his 60s sustained injuries and was rushed to the Navosa Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Ms Radrole told the court the matter was also for plea, however, the defence was still waiting for the psychiatric evaluation report to determine whether Tasere was fit to take his plea.

Justice Sharma adjourned the matter to March 8 for mention.