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Charters' application for leave to seek judicial review set for hearing on 23rd December

Alipate Narawa · 04/11/2026

The hearing of Charlie Charters' application for leave to seek judicial review has been set for 23rd December.

Charters claims that Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka's advice and the President, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu's appointment of Lavi Rokoika in May 2025 were unlawful and ultra vires (beyond legal authority), arguing that the recommendation power rests solely with the Judicial Services Commission after consulting the Attorney-General.

He says because of the alleged unlawful appointment, a Stop Departure Order issued against him on February 21st, 2026, and criminal charges sanctioned by Rokoika on February 23rd, 2026, were void of legal authority.

Charters is claiming special, general, vindicatory, aggravated, and exemplary damages against FICAC and Rokoika (representing the State) for alleged false imprisonment following his 48-hour detention from February 21st to 23rd, misfeasance in public office, and constitutional breaches under Sections 13 and 17 of the Fiji Constitution.

The matter was called before Justice Dane Tuiqereqere in the Suva High Court this morning.

Charters' lawyer, Seforan Fatiaki, has been given until 11th December to file his submissions.

The respondents, including Acting FICAC Commissioner Lavi Rokoika, the Prime Minister, the President, the Attorney-General's Office, FICAC and the Judicial Services Commission, have been given until 18th December to file their submissions.

Rokoika is represented by Ratu Tevita Vakalalabure, while Susan Serukai appeared for FICAC.

The Attorney-General's Office is representing the Prime Minister and the President, while Tomasi Tuitoga appeared for the Judicial Services Commission.