UK-based sports marketing executive Charlie Cobham Charters has filed an application for leave to apply for judicial review in the High Court in Suva, challenging the appointment of Acting FICAC Commissioner Lavinia Rokoika and seeking damages for false imprisonment and misfeasance in public office.
In documents filed on September 21 by Fatiaki Law, Mr Charters named the President of Fiji, the Prime Minister, the Attorney-General, Ms Rokoika, and the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) as respondents, with the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) listed as an interested party.
Mr Charters is seeking court declarations that the Prime Minister’s May 2025 advice and the President’s subsequent appointment of Ms Rokoika as acting FICAC Commissioner were unlawful and ultra vires.
He contends the power to recommend an appointment rests solely with the JSC after consultation with the Attorney-General.
He states that because Ms Rokoika was not lawfully appointed, a Stop Departure Order issued against him on February 21, 2026, and her decision to sanction two counts of aiding and abetting against him on February 23, 2026, were made without legal authority.
He is claiming special, general, vindicatory, aggravated, and exemplary damages. Mr Charters alleges false imprisonment following his detention from February 21 to February 23 before being brought to court, and accuses Ms Rokoika of misfeasance in public office, claiming she acted despite knowing she lacked authority and was driven by a personal conflict of interest over publications regarding her appointment.
The application notes a July 24 High Court ruling which previously found FICAC had violated Mr Charters’ rights to remain silent, consult a legal practitioner, and protect journalistic sources.
