Qarase, Bakani, Dakuidreketi case consolidated

The case of former Prime Minister, Laisenia Qarase, former NLTB General Manager, Kalivati Bakani and former director, Keni Dakuidreketi has been consolidated.

The decision was made by High Court Judge, Justice Priyantha Fernando in the last hour after assessing the submissions from FICAC and the defence counsels.

Justice Fernando made the decision on the ground that the 52 witnesses in the separate cases will be reduced to 38 and there are 36 common witnesses. He said this would also save the court's time.

Qarase's lawyer, Qoriniasi Bale said in court today that the defence counsel wants a clear direction from the court and the step that has to be taken on when the prosecution should file information.

Bale said the defence should also have dialogue with FICAC and exchange documents and disclosures.

He further said that he does not want any further amendments to the charges because it is now 4 years since his client was charged.

The case has been adjourned to the 8th of March when the defence counsels come back to court to review the final consolidation papers before Justice Daniel Goundar.

Qarase and Bakani appeared in court today while Dakuidreketi was excused as he is still in the US.
 
During the consolidation application, FICAC lawyer Henrietta Matakitoga said that the two cases involved funds that were allegedly fraudulently transferred from NLTB to two other entities namely the Vanua Development Corporation Limited and Pacific Connex Limited.

Matakitoga stated that the overall criminality in both cases is the defrauding of the NLTB of its funds.

She highlighted the fact that they were part of the Native Land Trust Board at the period in question in both cases and that Bakani and Dakuidreketi were Board members of the Vanua Development Corporation Limited and Pacific Connex Limited when each were setup.


Stoyry by: Vijay Narayan and Tokasa Rainima