Tanya Waqanika’s lawyer, Barbara Malimali has requested FICAC to provide document or proof that there was a municipal or general election in 2024, as this is relevant to the charge against Waqanika, which alleges that she made comments during an election year.
Malimali says FICAC can produce the necessary documents or proof through the Fiji Elections Office.
She says this would help her prepare her defence.
Magistrate Yogesh Prasad says it was a fair submission, as the charge statement has not yet been submitted.
State Counsel Josann Pene informed Magistrate Prasad that the charge statement would be submitted by the end of the day.
Magistrate Prasad says it is a fundamental right of any accused person to know what they are charged with.
He says the current charge is ambiguous and unclear.
The State Counsel has been given 14 days to provide the information.
Waqanika is charged by FICAC in relation to a facebook post on April 19th, 2024.
The charge is brought under Section 14(7) of the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act 2013.
Waqanika is charged by FICAC for allegedly breaching Section 14 of the Political Parties Act.
It is alleged that on or about 19 April 2024, while serving as a public officer, namely a Board Member of Investment Fiji and Telecom Fiji Limited, Waqanika publicly indicated opposition to the political party SODELPA.
The matter will be called again on the 17th of February for a properly documented charge.
Malimali requests FICAC to provide evidence of a 2024 election in Waqanika’s case
