The psychiatric evaluation report of suspended schoolteacher Kishore Kumar, who is accused of making false claims against Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Lenora Qereqeretabua, revealed he has a mental condition called schizoaffective disorder.
Acting Chief Magistrate Josaia Waqaivolavola made an order on April 3 that Mr Kumar undergo a psychiatric evaluation.
Mr Kumar, who faces a charge of indecently annoying a person and criminal intimidation, appeared before Magistrate Seini Puamau yesterday.
Compiled by three doctors, the psychiatric evaluation report found that a relapse with no medication and no follow-up treatment could lead to serious symptoms of Mr Kumar’s mental status that would prevent him from standing trial. In addition, he may become irrelevant and unfit to stand trial, therefore, it was vital that he comply with court orders and voluntarily visit the medical centre to receive treatment.
Ms Puamau said fortunately Mr Kumar would be able to stand trial as he understood his charges, was able to plead, able to exercise right of challenge, and able to make a defence and answer to charges.
The court also heard that Mr Kumar was extremely agitated and frustrated on his arrival on the day of the evaluation.
Yesterday he apologised to the court for his recent misconduct and assured the court of a smooth trial. Ms Puamau granted a $5000 non-cash bail with standard bail conditions.
She also reminded Mr Kumar to manage his health by scheduling regular visits to the hospital to prevent any intervention by the court. The trial is scheduled to commence on May 20.
