The High Court has granted an interim injunction on Nadi Chamber of Commerce’s current president, Lawrence Kumar, and interim secretary Shalendra Prasad from holding office.
Justice Sekonaia Vodokisolomone delivered the ruling yesterday at the High Court in Lautoka, stating the injunction would remain in effect until the final determination of the substantive case.
The case stemmed from a special general meeting on June 12 during which a vote of no-confidence was made against former chamber president Dr Ram Raju, leading to his removal.
He had filed an application for an injunction against Mr Kumar and Mr Prasad, saying the meeting and the subsequent removal process were unconstitutional.
In his ruling, Justice Vodokisolomone highlighted key issues, including the circulation of a new agenda three days before the meeting, which included a vote of no-confidence.
He said the chamber’s constitution requires a minimum seven-day notice for such a meeting.
“It appears that there are breaches of the constitution of the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry,” Justice Vodokisolomone said.
He also acknowledged a dispute over who was responsible for tabling the financial report, with Dr Raju claiming it was the treasurer’s duty and the defendants arguing it was the president’s.
“I grant an interim relief in favour of the plaintiff, as sorted press A, B, and C, 2 and 3 in the summons for injunction of the application dated 24th of June, 2025,” Justice Vodokisolomone said.
“This interim injunction shall be in duration until the final determination of the substantive suit and until further order of this court.”
Justice Vodokisolomone said costs for the application have been reserved until the final determination of the matter.
The court stated the defendants intended to appeal against the decision and would file an affidavit in opposition within 14 days.
The substantive matter will be called on September 16.