Justice Minister Siromi Turaga to be cross examined for alleged political interference in Dr Nakarawa's tribunal hearing

The counsel for suspended Commissioner of the Fiji Corrections Service, Dr Jalesi Nakarawa intends to cross examine 4 witnesses, including Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga for alleged political interference during the tribunal hearing into allegations of misbehaviour by Dr Nakarawa

This was confirmed by Dr Nakarawa's counsel Simione Valenitabua as they appeared before a 3-member tribunal including Justice Daniel Goundar, Justice Savenaca Banuve and Justice Dane Tuiqereqere this afternoon.

He says they will also cross examine the Secretary of the Constitutional Offices Commission and the Solicitor General, Ropate Green, the Corrections Director HR and the current Acting Commissioner.

Valenitabua says they have accepted 32 affidavits as true and correct.

Meanwhile, counsel assisting the tribunal, Juleen Fatiaki says she will be taking a two-tiered approach where they will first determine facts and then if it constitutes as misbehaviour according to the Constitution, constituting removal from the office.

She says 37 affidavits have been tendered with consent while she will be clarifying matters with 12 witnesses, including Dr Nakarawa.

Fatiaki says former Corrections Director Medical Services Dr Orisi Vulibulu will also be called.

The tribunal hearing will begin tomorrow as Fatiaki and Valenitabua will confirm the questions asked of the tribunal.