THE High Court in Suva has set out a timeline for directions following an application by former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem objecting to the Office of the Attorney-General representing five current and former State officials in his $5 million civil suit.
The matter was called for the first time today, before Master of the High Court in Suva, Vandhana Lal.
Mr Saneem filed the application challenging the Attorney-General’s representation of the first five defendants, arguing that the individuals are being sued in their personal capacities. The Attorney-General is named as the sixth defendant as the nominal representative of the State under vicarious liability.
Deputy State Solicitor Ofa Solimailagi appeared for all six defendants, while lawyer Christine Naicker represented Mr Saneem.
Master Lal directed Ms Solimailagi to file its affidavit in opposition by October 2, 2026. Ms Naicker has been instructed to file a response by October 16.
Written submissions are scheduled to be filed by Ms Naicker by November 6, and by Ms Solimailagi by November 27.
The matter has been adjourned to December 18, to fix a date for the hearing of the application.
Saneem initiated the civil proceedings under Civil Action No. 193 of 2026 following his June acquittal on criminal charges relating to a remuneration variation agreement. He is seeking $5 million in general damages alongside aggravated and exemplary damages, citing malicious prosecution, false imprisonment, and constitutional rights violations.
The lawsuit names former acting DPP John Rabuku, acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva, former acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew, Detective Sergeant Suliasi Dulaki, Detective Constable Tomasi Lagikula, and the Attorney-General.
