Defence lawyer Esiteri Radrole told the High Court in Lautoka yesterday that her client would rely on a defence of provocation based on some of his answers in the caution interview.

Her client, murder accused Korotolu Tasere, allegedly assaulted his elderly father at their home at Draubuta Village, Navosa in July 2021 resulting in his death. It was also alleged that Tasere was under the influence of alcohol when he assaulted his father as he lay on his bed.

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

Justice Riyaz Hamza presided over the matter and the state was represented by Alvin Singh.

Ms Radrole told the court that the defence would not be filing any voir dire grounds and that Tasere informed her there were some answers in his caution interview that were not made by him, however, there were also a few answers that supported his defence of provocation.

Mr Singh told the court that the state would be relying on the caution interview and would file the proposed agreed facts and pretrial checklist within three weeks.

Ms Radrole told the court that clarification needed to be made regarding Tasere’s bail sureties before proceeding with the bail application.

Justice Hamza adjourned the matter to May 4 for mention and further remanded Tasere.