Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka will personally meet the security for costs ordered to be paid as a condition of his appeal to the Court of Appeal in relation to an ongoing legal challenge surrounding the removal of the former Commissioner of FICAC.
The order stems from earlier proceedings before Justice Dane Tuiqereqere, in which former FICAC commissioner Barbara Malimali successfully challenged the actions involving the President and the Prime Minister over her dismissal from the anti-corruption body.
The security for costs order is a standard condition of appeals to the Court of Appeal to ensure that the respondent party’s legal costs are covered should the appeal be unsuccessful.
On Tuesday, Chief Registrar Tomasi Bainivalu directed that $3000 be paid as security for costs. The PM’s lawyer, Simione Valenitabua, clarified to this newspaper that “He will personally pay as Prime Minister, Honourable Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka.”
Ms Malimali’s lawyer Tanya Waqanika described the development as significant, noting that the financial responsibility would not fall on taxpayers.
“It’s good to hear that the Prime Minister, in his personal capacity, is paying the legal bills out of his own pocket and not taxpayers’ money.”
In a separate matter, Ms Waqanika also addressed developments concerning Manoa Kamikamica, indicating that legal avenues remain open should related issues arise.
She said judicial review continues to be a viable option, with discussions ongoing among the legal team regarding their next steps.
While acknowledging that court decisions may not always be favourable, she emphasised the importance of upholding the legal process.
“We just have to respect the rule of law. It is what it is — we roll with the punches.”
The matter remains before the courts.
