First FICAC witness in Reddy’s trial reveals he was one of the campaign managers of SODELPA

The first FICAC witness in former Education Minister Doctor Mahendra Reddy’s trial Waisea Lelobo has revealed that he was one of the campaign managers of SODELPA.

The trial started in the Suva Magistrates Court earlier today and FICAC has confirmed that it will call four witnesses.

Doctor Reddy has pleaded not guilty to one count of bribery and one count of undue influence before Chief Magistrate Usaia Ratuvili.

It is alleged that Doctor Mahendra Reddy, on or about 8th May this year, in Rakiraki, in order to influence the vote of Waisea Lelobo, the Manager of Ra High School, directly conferred or offered to confer a benefit namely a steady water source for Ra High School.

It is also alleged that Doctor Reddy on or about 8th May this year, in Rakiraki, interfered with the free exercise or performance of a political right of Waisea Lelobo that is relevant to the 2018 election.

The first FICAC witness, 65-year-old Waisea Lelobo confirmed in court that he is a retired primary school teacher and is now the school manager for Ra High School.

Lelobo says he was elected as a school manager in 2010.

When asked by FICAC counsel if he engaged in politics, Lelobo said that he was the campaign manager for SODELPA in Ra.

He says he was a SODELPA member and was elected as a campaign manager.

He confirms that Ra High School faces water supply problems.

He says the water source is 12 miles away from the school.

The trial continues this afternoon.