DPP lawyer, Laisani Tabuakoro says they find the sentencing for Voreqe Bainimarama and Sitiveni Qiliho disgraceful, and they will appeal the absolute discharge for Bainimarama and fine without registering conviction for Qiliho by Magistrate Puamau.
Magistrate Puamau says what Tabuakoro said is inappropriate and it will not go on the record as they are not allowed to make comments like that.
She says the DPP is free to appeal it.
Tabuakoro then suggested that they take a break for 5 minutes however, Magistrate Puamau said that if the State chooses to leave then it is prudent to do so and she will be taking a minute of silence for late former DPP, Ratu David Toganivalu.
Ratu David was the prosecutor in the case before his passing.
Tabuakoro then asked if they can be excused and was allowed to leave by Magistrate Puamau.
A minute of silence was then observed and following which, Magistrate Puamau again stressed that the judiciary is independent and so is she and you can do what you like with that.
She says when State counsel have had the number of years of service she has had at the DPP’s Office, the academic qualifications she has, dedicated their entire lives, both private and personal, in the study of criminal law; written the number of directives and policies for ODPP, written its Prosecutions Handbook and conducted training for a multitude of years, including and up to national training, then the State counsel can make the comment about her expertise.
She says until then it is best they exercise humility and care.
Magistrate Puamau says she wants to also say this to any member of the public that wants to say something about her.
She says when you have that volume of work experience in criminal law under your belt, then you talk.
The return date has been set for April 28th.
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