The prosecution maintains that former deputy prime minister Manoa Kamikamica’s criminal case should continue in the Suva Magistrate’s Court.
FICAC prosecutor Josann Pene told Magistrate Charles Ratakele that Mr Kamikamica’s High Court matter is separate from the proceedings before the lower court.
Mr Kamikamica has applied to the High Court in Suva seeking a permanent stay of his criminal proceedings, which have been fixed for hearing in March.
Ms Pene said that, since full disclosure has been served, Mr Kamikamica’s plea should be taken. However, defence lawyer Wylie Clarke asked the court to await the High Court’s decision, arguing that it has a direct bearing on the matter.
Mr Kamikamica faces a count of perjury for allegedly knowingly making a false statement under oath, claiming he had nothing to do with the appointment of FICAC commissioner Barbara Malimali.
He also faces a charge of giving false information to a public servant for allegedly providing the same false information to a Commissioner of Inquiry (COI) between December 1, 2024, and March 31, last year. The case has been adjourned to April 14 to update Mr Ratakele.
