Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica has suffered a legal setback after the Suva High Court dismissed his application to stay proceedings in a case involving allegations of perjury and providing false information.
Presiding judge Justice Siainiu Fa’alogo Bull ruled that the defence argument—claiming an absence of evidence—was “without merit,” and refused the application.
The ruling clears the way for the case to proceed, with the court satisfied there are sufficient grounds for the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption to continue its prosecution.
Kamikamica faces one count of perjury and one count of providing false information, stemming from statements allegedly made under oath in relation to the appointment of Barbara Malimali as FICAC Commissioner.
The appointment sparked significant controversy in 2024 after Malimali was investigated shortly after assuming office, placing scrutiny on the process and individuals involved.
With the stay application dismissed, the matter will return to court for further proceedings, including the setting of trial or mention dates.
