A man accused of murder claims that to properly defend himself, he needs to be granted bail so he can have access to the internet and a mobile phone for research purposes.
Apisai Madigibuli told the High Court in Suva that once bail is granted, he intends to find work so he can hire a lawyer and take care of his children.
However, Senior state lawyer Monisha Naidu earlier this week firmly opposed Mr Madigibuli’s third bail application, deeming the reasons stated in his five-page letter as unreasonable.
Ms Naidu noted that despite the court’s repeated explanations regarding the seriousness of the charges, Mr Madigibuli has remained adamant on representing himself, with the Legal Aid Commission being asked to assist him as a “friend of the court” in preparation for the trial which is set to begin in 2026.
She said given that he’s charged with the gruesome murder of his pregnant wife in an apartment complex in Suva on April 25 last year, granting bail would be unsafe to both the public and himself.
Additionally, she said Mr Madigibuli’s children were being well cared for by their maternal grandparents in Savusavu.
Presiding judge Justice Dane Tuiqereqere would rule on the bail application next Monday while the trial is set to commence on April 6 next year.