Malani’s lawyer given time to file affidavit

Veronica Malani’s lawyer, Sitiveni Raikanikoda has been given 14 days to file their affidavit against the strike out application by the seventh respondent, former DPP lawyer, Neelraj Sharma.

The civil matter, called before Justice Usaia Ratuvili at the High Court in Suva, was in relation to a compensation claim of $800,244 million from 11 people who were involved in the investigation process of the alleged 1987 bombing case in 2020.

The defendants involved some former and current members of the Fiji Police Force and the Director of the Public Prosecutions.

During the court proceedings, Mr Sharma’s lawyer, Ronald Singh, told the court that they filed a strike out application to remove their client from the proceeding.

He said his client was a former DPP lawyer and was now working for Munroe Leys Lawyers.

Justice Ratuvili told Mr Raikanakoda to respond to the application and note whether he has evidence pertaining to his involvement.

Mr Raikanakoda also questioned the court as to why two of the defendants weren’t represented given they were retired civil servants.

These three defendants included former Acting Police Commissioner, Rusiate Tudravu and retired assistant Police Commissioner (ACP) Crime, Biu Matavou.

Justice Ratuvili told the court that the Office of the Attorney-General would have to give an explanation about that in the next proceeding.

The matter was then adjourned to October 9 for mention.

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