Waqanika's Defence Plans to Call Up to Five Witnesses in FICAC Trial

In the Suva Magistrates Court, defence counsel Barbara Malimali revealed plans to call four to five witnesses in the upcoming trial of Tanya Waqanika, who faces charges brought by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). Waqanika appeared before Magistrate Yogesh Prasad, with the prosecution also indicating intentions to call a similar number of witnesses.

Potential Trial Delays

Magistrate Prasad noted that the ongoing trial of former Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad might extend for another two to three weeks, potentially overlapping with Waqanika's trial dates. Consequently, the trial dates for Waqanika may need to be adjusted. Defence counsel Malimali acknowledged the situation, stating that the defence is monitoring Professor Prasad's case closely.

Charges Against Waqanika

Waqanika is charged with one count of publicly indicating opposition to a political party. It is alleged that on or about April 19, 2024, while serving as a board member of Investment Fiji and Telecom Fiji Limited, she publicly indicated opposition to the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA). The trial is currently scheduled from September 28 to October 2, but these dates may be subject to change depending on the progress of related cases.

The court proceedings underscore the complexities and interconnections within Fiji's legal landscape, particularly concerning cases involving political figures and allegations of misconduct.