Legal aid to assist Takiveikata in mutiny retrial

An application by Naitasiri high chief Ratu Inoke Takiveikata's lawyer for an adjournment of his November 2000 mutiny retrial which was scheduled to start this morning was rejected by the Suva High Court today.

Filimoni Vosaroqo made the application before Judge Justice Daniel Gounder saying that Takiveikata wants a Queens Counsel to represent him.

However, Justice Gounder denied the application saying that ample time was given to Takiveikata to seek the assistance of a Queens Counsel since the matter was last adjourned in November last year and the alleged offence took place almost ten years ago.

Judge Gounder also highlighted that he understands the seriousness of the charge and therefore instructed that Takiveikata be assisted by a senior counsel from the Legal Aid Commission during the trial.

He has also summoned the Director of Legal Aid to appear before him at 2.30 this afternoon where the judge will inform him about the assistance to be provided to Takiveikata.

DPP lawyer David Toganivalu also said that they are ready to proceed with the matter and a number of their witnesses are in court.

It was also revealed in court that Captain Shane Stevens, who is serving time for the November 2000 mutiny, will be a key state witness.

The matter has been adjourned till 2.30pm this afternoon.


Story by: Shalvin Deo