PACIFIC Polytechnic’s defamation proceedings against Opposition MP Alvick Maharaj have been set down for a three-day trial in the High Court in Suva next year.
Justice Savenaca Banuve set the trial for April 27 to 29, 2027.
The institution filed the proceedings on April 10, 2026, seeking damages over statements allegedly made and circulated publicly by Mr Maharaj.
In its statement of claim, Pacific Polytechnic alleges Mr Maharaj issued a media statement on January 14 titled “Call for Urgent Investigation into Pacific Polytech Following Leaked Salary Crisis and Financial Mismanagement Allegations”.
The statement was allegedly circulated on social media, the Parliamentary Opposition Chambers page and through local media.
The institution claims the publication falsely portrayed it as operating unlawfully, mismanaging public funds, facing financial instability, and withholding staff salaries.
It also alleges Mr Maharaj relied on a Standing Committee on Social Affairs report that had been withdrawn by Parliament and made defamatory remarks about its chairperson, Dr Ganeshwar Chand.
Pacific Polytechnic is seeking general, punitive, and exemplary damages, interest, and legal costs.
