Alleged murderer Epeli Laqeni is asking the courts for bail—not luxury—but basic medical care to enable him to walk, as he remains wheelchair-bound.
His lawyer, Timoci Varinava, told Justice Usaia Ratuvili that continued detention could cause permanent impairment.
Mr Laqeni, a former corrections officer, faces one count of murder of his de facto partner, allegedly committed between September 3 and 5 last year in Nakasi, Nausori.
Mr Varinava cited a medical report recommending surgery and physiotherapy and noted the prison doctor is a general practitioner, not a specialist.
He also referenced a Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission report showing 10 remandees crammed into a six-bed infirmary, forcing Mr Laqeni to sleep on the floor.
Prosecutor Naazish Ali countered that the beds are for emergencies, that Mr Laqeni is recovering well in custody, and can undergo surgery without release. Allegations of verbal abuse were described as “malicious and frivolous”. Justice Ratuvili will deliver his ruling on February 24.
