Dr Leighley Darling's murder trial opens with allegations of jealousy and financial dependence

A relationship allegedly marked by jealousy, financial dependence and escalating conflict ended in the alleged killing of well-known Nadi doctor Isireli Biumaitotoya, known as Dr Leighley Darling, the High Court heard yesterday as the accused man's murder trial began.

Prosecutors allege Ratu Peceli Rokoralovo, who is charged with one count of murder, attacked Dr Biumaitotoya at his Martintar home sometime between August 31 and September 1, 2025, following an argument after the pair had spent several days drinking together.

Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku told the court the case arose from a relationship "allegedly marked by financial dependence, jealousy and escalating conflict that ended in a fatal attack."

He said Dr Biumaitotoya, who operated a successful medical clinic, was financially well-off and supported the accused.

"He provided financial support to the accused and, in return, expected loyalty and attention," Mr Rabuku said.

The prosecution alleged tensions between the pair escalated because of mistrust, resentment, excessive alcohol consumption and unrequited love.

Alleged attack

The State alleged the pair spent several days drinking together around Nadi and Lautoka before returning to Dr Biumaitotoya's home at Fatima Court in Martintar, Nadi, on the night of the alleged murder.

After resuming drinking, an argument allegedly broke out.

Prosecutors allege the accused attacked Dr Biumaitotoya with a cane knife, inflicting multiple wounds to his head, shoulders, arms and back.

The court heard Dr Biumaitotoya collapsed in his bedroom after suffering severe injuries and heavy blood loss.

The State further alleged the accused drove the victim's vehicle to Nausori before returning it to the victim's home and travelling to Suva.

Dr Biumaitotoya's body was discovered on September 1, 2025, after his receptionist became concerned when he failed to report for work. Police later found him lying in a pool of blood inside his bedroom.

Accused sought legal representation

The trial opened before High Court judge Justice Aruna Aluthge, with the accused seeking legal representation after dismissing both his private lawyer and his Legal Aid counsel.

A Legal Aid lawyer attended the proceedings as amicus curiae (friend of the court).

Witnesses testify

Five witnesses testified on the opening day of the trial, including Dr Biumaitotoya's sister, Sera Vini Leba, who told the court the accused had been introduced to her by the deceased as his lover.

His nephew, Fatioele Matawalu, also testified that he knew the pair were in a relationship because he lived with the deceased and regularly saw the accused visiting the house.

A second nephew, police officer PC Ledua Kotoilevuka, identified the body before the post-mortem examination.

Medical receptionist Angyln Chandra testified she discovered Dr Biumaitotoya's body with two police officers on September 1.

Police Constable Peni Ranamu, one of the first officers at the scene, also gave evidence.

The State is expected to call about 30 witnesses, including crime scene investigators, forensic officers, medical staff and the pathologist who conducted the post-mortem.

Prosecutors also intend to rely on statements allegedly made by the accused after his arrest, including comments to police, a recorded interview and a video-recorded crime scene reconstruction.

The trial continues today with six more witnesses expected to testify.

Ratu Peceli remains in custody.