Application to add 'Govt of Fiji' to Fiji Airways Israel charter flight case struck out

An application to add the 'Government of Fiji' as a party to the court proceedings involving the chartered flight to Israel from Fiji, for which Fiji Airways is allegedly owed over $3.1 million, has been struck out. The matter was called before Acting Master Liyanage Wickramasekera in the Civil High Court this morning. Air Pacific, trading as Fiji Airways, has filed a civil lawsuit against Wabs Pacific Limited, Kane Holding Pte Ltd, Viliame Gonelevu and others, Manasa Kolivuso and Michael Mausio for allegedly not paying for a chartered flight to Israel. Pastor Manasa Kolivuso's representative in court applied for the 'Government of Fiji' to be a party to the proceedings, however, when questioned by Master Wickramasekera, they stated that they apply for the State to be a party. Master Wickramasekera struck out the summons as he has ruled they are misconstrued. The charter flight, operated in September and October 2023, transported passengers to the Feast of the Tabernacle religious tour in Israel. Kane Holdings PTE Limited, the trustees of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, have filed a separate application to strike out Fiji Airways’ claims. The counsel for Fiji Airways, Nilesh Prasad informed the court that all parties have filed submissions regarding the claims and counter claims. The matter has been adjourned to the 6th of February next year.