FICAC has strongly objected to an application for a new trial in the criminal case of former parliamentarian Simione Rasova.
Lead prosecutor Josann Pene submitted yesterday that a new trial would be unnecessary because evidence had already been presented during the 2023 trial, after which the prosecution closed its case.
The case was heard in 2023 before Magistrate Pulekeria Low, but is now being heard by Magistrate Joseph Daurewa.
Ms Pene said rehearing the matter would merely repeat the evidence already adduced and disrupt trial Magistrate Daurewa’s case management.
Mr Rasova faces two counts of providing false information to a public servant and one count of obtaining a financial advantage. Earlier this year, the court ruled that he had a case to answer.
He is accused of falsely stating his permanent place of residence and receiving $21,350 in allowances between July 2019 and April 2020, to which he was allegedly not entitled.
Ms Pene further argued that a fresh trial would greatly prejudice the prosecution, noting that its first witness had a medical issue and it took a week to record that witness’s evidence. She maintained the trial should proceed.
In response, defence lawyer Ruth Fa of Fa & Company said they withdrew Mr Rasova’s no-case-to-answer appeal due to a jurisdictional issue. However, the defence is considering filing a review application for a permanent stay and sought time to do so.
Magistrate Daurewa will deliver his ruling on the re-hearing application on June 8 after the parties file written submissions.
Mr Rasova’s bail was extended.
