No defence called in Madigibuli murder trial, accused remains silent

The murder trial of Apisai Madigibuli has entered its final stages after the accused chose to remain silent and not call any witnesses in his defence.

Madigibuli is charged with the murder of his 26-year-old pregnant wife, Kitiana Baravilala, who was allegedly stabbed multiple times in April 2024.

The case is being heard before Justice Dane Tuiqereqere at the High Court in Suva yesterday.

After the prosecution closed its case, Justice Tuiqereqere ruled that Madigibuli has a case to answer.

The accused was then told of his legal options, including giving evidence under oath or calling witnesses, but he chose not to present any defence.

This means the trial will now move straight to closing submissions.

During proceedings, the judge also raised concerns about the police interview process.

He questioned whether investigators were allowed to continue interviewing the accused on a third day without taking him before a magistrate within the required 48 hours.

State counsel Shadaf Shameem has been directed to file legal submissions on this issue, which will be addressed during closing arguments.

The court has ordered the prosecution to file its written submissions by next Tuesday and provide a copy to the accused.

Madigibuli remains in custody and the matter will be called again on April 23 for closing submissions.

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