Fiji Law Society notes fresh purge of judiciary
Fiji Law Society president, Dorsami Naidu
The Fiji Law Society president, Dorsami Naidu, says the Fijian administration is further purging the justice sector of people who don’t toe the line.
Three magistrates and several public prosecutors have been sacked this week without the public being given an explanation.
The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has broadened its operations, charging a member of the International Commission of Jurists, Imrana Jalal, and her husband with operating a restaurant without a licence.
Ms Jalal denies the charges.
Mr Naidu said anti-corruption organisations usually deal with corruption matters involving public bodies.
“FICAC should not have become involved. This is dealt with by the municipal council and if a person does not pay their business licence fee and if they have operated, the municipal council can take them to court and claim that money. I can’t call it corruption.”
Mr Naidu said he doesn’t understand why FICAC has become involved, but adds the Commission seem to single out people who are critical of the regime.
He said the administration seems tough on those opposing its agenda.
“It’s in regards to the views the magistrates have on certain charges being laid by FICAC, which are not within their powers and the magistrates have told them so. That’s one reason and certain other views they have on certain cases brought by FICAC. They are probably not toeing the line.”
Mr Naidu said little is known about the sackings of the prosecutors
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