Court delays ruling for Ex-SODELPA duo

Hopes of having the ‘no case to answer’ ruling heard for Simione Rasova and Peceli Vosanibola were dashed as the Suva Magistrate’s Court adjourned the case yet again yesterday.

Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) lawyer, Josanne Pene appeared in court along with the two accused hoping to hear something positive.

However, all the parties were told that Magistrate Pulekeria Low was still not ready with the ruling.

The case was adjourned to November 22. Rasova and Vosanibola are former members of the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) who have been charged with abuse of office by FICAC.

Rasova’s case 

This will be the 15th time the court has adjourned its ruling for Rasova. He faces one count of providing false information to a public servant, allegedly lying about his residence to obtain financial gain.

Rasova is accused of falsely stating that his permanent residence was in Nasenivolau, Nabouwalu village, Ono, Kadavu Island, allowing him to obtain $21,350 between July 2019 and April 2020.

Vosanibola’s case 

This would be the third adjournment date for Vosanibola’s case.

He is facing one count each of giving false information and obtaining financial advantage.

It is alleged that between August 2019 and March 2020, Vosanibola falsely stated that his permanent residence was in Navuloa village, Bureta, Ovalau, allowing him to obtain $19,749.50.

Additionally, he is accused of breaching the Parliamentary Remuneration Act 2014 by claiming travel and accommodation allowances to which he was not entitled.

Rasova’s ruling has been adjourned to October 30, while Vosanibola’s ruling is set for October 31.

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