The Registrar of Political Parties, Ana Mataiciwa through her lawyers, Shailend Krishna of Krishna and Co is now seeking legal costs from independent MP, Alvick Maharaj in the sum of $25,000 following the withdrawal of his petition in appealing the decision of the Registrar after the parties went through several hearings before the Electoral Commission.
Krishna has formally requested the recovery of costs of $25,000 to the Electoral Commission by the withdrawal of Maharaj’s appeal, which had been lodged in the wake of the Registrar of Political Parties decision in de-registering the FijiFirst Party.
Krishna and Co. confirms that the necessary legal steps are being followed to apply for costs associated with the withdrawal.
They emphasize that the withdrawal of the appeal had resulted in considerable administrative and legal expenses for the Registrar and if you challenge a decision which is your legal right to do so than you must also bear in mind that the Registrar and SOE also has legal rights to defend and seek costs as well.
Krishna says they are seeking to recover the costs that have been incurred due to the filing, appearances, interlocutory applications and hearings that has taken place and subsequent withdrawal of the appeal.
When contacted by fijivillage News, Maharaj said he is unaware of the legal action.
