FNU Causes Upset at National Moot Battle

Fiji National University (FNU) caused a major upset at the National Intertertiary Moot Competition, by winning the final in High Court Two on Thursday.

The competition, hosted this year by the University of the South Pacific (USP), saw law schools around the country face-off in a mock trial situation.

The University of Fiji (UoF) and FNU went through a tense final in a packed High Court with a cross-appeal scenario based on consumer law.

FNU’s team of Arnold Chanel, Talei Karavaki, and Peter Raculo eventually prevailed, cementing FNU Law as the top mooting team in the country.

The trial was presided by esteemed High Court Judges Justice Tuiqereqere, Justice Banuve, and Bulamainaivalu. It was treated as a full Court of Appeal case.

Justice Tuiqereqere praised the students’ performances.

“The level of preparation and professionalism exhibited by all participants was outstanding.

“This bodes well for the future of the legal profession in Fiji,” he said.

The theme around this year’s competition was consumer law, with the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) being sponsors of the event.

“The goal was not only to increase the litigation prowess of law students, but also to generate interest and awareness on consumer and competition issues,” FCCC CEO Joel Abraham said.

“Consumer issues are critical to the people of Fiji, as they protect the vulnerable and ensure a fair and vibrant market for the overall well-being of Fiji, and, future lawyers need to be well versed with consumer laws.”

The cross-appeal scenario tested the teams’ abilities to navigate complex issues of consumer law, including unfair trade practices and regulatory compliance.

FNU’s innovative arguments and thorough research gave them the edge in the final round.

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