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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par AT SUVA
\par APPELLATE JURISDICTION
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\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Appellant
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\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 Hearing: }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 8th August 2002
\par Judgment:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 16}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  August 2002
\par 
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\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Mr G. Allen for Appellant
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\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542\charrsid1913542 JUDGMENT}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542\charrsid1913542 
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\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 On 21}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 st}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
 March 2002, the Respondent was acquitted, in the Suva Magistrates Court, of the following charges:
\par 
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 COUNT 1
\par 
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: Contrary to sections 37 and 85 of the Traffic Act, Cap. 176.
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\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  day of August, 1999 at Nasinu in the Central Division drove a motor vehicle registration number GM 585 on Kings Road, Laqere without due care and attention.
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\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 COUNT 2
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\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 TAKING A MOTOR VEHICLE WITHOUT THE OWNER}{
\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 S CONSENT}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 : Contrary to section 40 of the Traffic Act, Cap. 176.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368 
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\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  day of August, 1999 at Nasinu in the Central division took and drove away a motor vehicle registration number GM 585 without having the consent of the owner or other lawful authority.
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\par The Director of Public Prosecutions appeals against the acquittals upon the following grounds:
\par 
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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 that the trial Magistrate erred in law and failed to exercise his discretion fairly and judicially wh
en he refused to grant an adjournment;
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\par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \fi-698\li1418\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin1418\itap0\pararsid1913542 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 that the trial Magistrate erred in law when he stated that he could not entertain a part}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 heard trial;
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\par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (c)\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \fi-698\li1418\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin1418\itap0\pararsid1913542 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 that the learned Magistrate erred in law when he invoked section 210 of Criminal Procedure Code to acquit the Respondent.
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\par In support of the appeal, the Appellant made an application to adduce evidence (originally an application to supplement the record), and filed the affidavits of Sofia Shah, dated 2}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 nd}
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  May 2002, Maciu Nacaucaulevu of 8}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
 July 2002, a further affidavit of Sofia Shah dated 8}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  July2002, and the affidavit of Imeri Simpson of 11}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  July 2002.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The Respondent filed the affidavit of Semi Talawadua dated 18}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  June 2002 and of Abhay Kumar Singh of 30}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
 July 2002.
\par 
\par The Respondent objected to the adducing of further evidence.
\par 
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 History of the Case}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par 
\par The offences were allegedly committed on the 8}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  of August 1999.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The case was called on the 7}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
 of March 2000 in the Suva Magistrates Court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 It appears that the Respondent had not been served with summons, and the matt
er was adjourned four times }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
for service.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The Respondent finally appeared on 12}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
 October and pleaded not guilty.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The case was adjourned to 20}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  November 2000.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
The prosecution said that full disclosure had been complied with.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The case was adjourned to the 12}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  of January 2001 for hearing.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 On the 12}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
 of January, the Respondent who had hitherto been unrepresented, was represented by counsel.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
The prosecution said that they needed to send the file to the DPP}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 s Office.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Defence counsel did not object, and the c
ase was adjourned to the 6}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  of April 2001 for mention.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 On that day, the case was further adjourned to 23}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 rd}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
 of April 2001 because the police file was still with the DPP.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 On 15}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  May a hearing date was set, for 3}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 rd}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
 December 2001.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 On the 3}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 rd}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  of December, counsel for the Respondent asked for an adjournment because he was busy in the High Court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The prosecution said that the witnesses were present, but they consented to another date.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The case was adjourned to 22}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 nd}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  March 2002.
\par 
\par On 22}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 nd}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  March all parties were present.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The Defence was ready to proceed.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
The prosecutor, Ms Shah is recorded to have said:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 We}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 ve yet to disclose witness statements.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 We}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
ve contacted Defence counsel he said he had no instructions from his client.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Ask for part}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 heard.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
I had my witnesses the last time, but the Defence was not ready to proceed.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
One witness is in Australia, one is sick and Sgt. Uraia is in a meeting with Police Commissioner.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Ask to disclose statements to Defence.
}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Mr Singh, counsel for the Defence is recorded to have said:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The sick sheet is not in compliance with Criminal Procedure Code.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par The learned Magistrate then ruled as follows:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 This matter had been set for hearing 3 times.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
Twice the prosecution couldn}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
t proceed and once the Defence counsel sought adjournment as he had High Court trial.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
Further the case is well over 12 months and reason offered by Prosecution on one witness having meeting with Police Commissioner cannot be good cause for the Court to accept.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 I therefore refuse to grant part}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 heard or any further adjourn
ment in this case and I order so accordingly.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par The prosecutor then applied for withdrawal of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 the charge under section 201(2)(b)(ii) of the Criminal Procedure Code.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 I can
}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 t make prima facie case.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
 The charges were then read again to the Respondent.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 He pleaded not guilty.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The Court then ruled:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The Prosecutions can}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 t proceed to make a prima facie case and are asking for withdrawal of charges under Section 201(2)(b)(ii) of the Criminal Procedure Code.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  
}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 I refuse to withdraw the charges for reasons stated earl
ier on and order that the cases be dismissed and accused be acquitted on both counts under section 210 of the Criminal Procedure Code.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The additional evidence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par 
\par Section 320(1) of the Criminal Procedure Code provides:
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 In dealing with an appeal from a magistrates}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  court the High Court, if it thinks additional evidence is necessary, may either take such evidence itself, or direct it to be taken by a magistrates}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  court.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par The common law principles relevant to the exercise of this discretion are that the cour
t must ask why that evidence was not adduced in the lower court, whether the evidence is relevant to the appeal, whether it is admissible evidence and whether the evidence is credible.
\par 
\par The contents of the first affidavit of Sofia Shah, dated 2}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 nd}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  May 2002, refer to the history of the case from the 12}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  of January 2002.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Paragraphs 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 read as follows:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 9. That on 3/12/01 the defence counsel stated he was busy in High Court.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 He also stated that he had not received full disclosure from prosecution.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Hearing date was fixed for 22/03/02.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 10. That on 3/12/01 all prosecution witnesses had turned up in court.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
11. That another set of disclosures were made and defence counsel was contacted by the Director of Public Prosecutions Office but he refused to receive the disclosures saying that he had no further instructions from the accused.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 12. That the accused could not be located and therefore full disclosures could not be done.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The disclosures were tried to be served in Court on 22/03/02 but Abhay
 Singh objected to it and said he wanted to go to trial with just the one witness statement which was disclosed to him (meaning the prima facie case to be shown with just one witness who had given instruction for 2 witness statements to be recorded).}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The Court said this would be fair to the Defence.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 13. That three of prosecution}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 s witnesses were not present but were available on Monday the 25/03/02.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 There were 12 witnesses in this case }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  one had migrated to Australia.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 However the evidence of the remaining 
eleven witnesses was sufficient.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Three of these were not available on 22/3/02 however they could come to court on Monday the 25}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
 of March (one in Labasa for a Conference and one in Australia for a conference and one in a meeting with the Commissioner and could be available later during the day).}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The complainant for count 1 came a bit late for he went to attend a funeral.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
14. That all the other witnesses were present and could have proved the second charge that is using of motor vehicle without lawful authority.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The first charge of careless driving could not be proved without the first witness who came late unfortunately.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par The remaining parts of the affidavit refer to matters in court which are already on the court record.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The evidence of attempts to discl
ose by the police and the DPP}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
s Office is also the subject of the affidavits of Imeri Simpson and of Maciu Nacaucaulevu.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
Both affidavits refer to repeated attempts to serve Mr A.K. Singh with further witness statements on 25}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
 February 2002, and to information received from Mr Singh and his wife that no further instructions had been received to appear for the accused.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 This is disputed by Semi Talawadua who states that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 I wish to state that I have enquired from my solicitor}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 s office and I have been advised that at no time DPP}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 s Office contacted regarding further disclosure in my case.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 He also states that }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
my solicitor only informed the court he objected to any adjournment, as on 20}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
 November 2000, I provided with full disclosures.(d) My solicitor also informed the court that he wanted to proceed with the matter with 5 witness statements disclosed to him.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par 
\par Mr A.K. Singh in his affidavit denies ever being approached by Police Constable Imeri Simpson for disclosure.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
At paragraphs 9, 10 and 11 he states:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 9. That I deny that I was approached or contacted by Police Constable Imeri Simpson to serve disclosures of this case.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 10. On 18}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  March 2002 I was in Nausori and Suva Magistrates Court and I was never approached or contacted by phone to serve disclosures at my office.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 11. That on 22}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 nd}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  March 2002, I was ready to proceed and at the material time prosecution had only one of the witnesses whose disclosures was given to me.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par There is therefore dispute as to whether attempts to disclose further witness statements had been made on the defence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
There is no dispute, that on the day of the hearing, the defence was ready to proceed with those witnesses in respect of whom earlier disclosure was made.
\par 
\par At the hearing of this appeal, counsel for the State conceded that these affidavits are of marginal relevance to the appeal itself.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
This is an appeal against acquittal.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The State says that having refused the prosecution}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
s application to withdraw the charge/s, the Magistrate erred in proceeding to dismiss the case and acquit the accused.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
The Respondent says that the Magistrate was right to proceed to acquittal because the history of the case and the record, show that the prosecution, after long delays, were not ready to proceed and could not make a prima facie case.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Counsel for the Respondent agreed that the affidavits added very little to the appeal.
\par 
\par I agree with counsel.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
Even if the prosecution did attempt to disclose further statements to the defence without success, the fact remained that the prosecution was only in a position to call some of its witnesses on 22}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 nd}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  March.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Although Mr Singh concedes in his affidavit that he was not prepared to proceed with non}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 disclosed witnesses, the Magistrate made no reference to the non}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
disclosure in his rulings.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 In fact, non}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 disclosure of statements does not prevent the prosecution from calling witnesses.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The defence may seek an adjournment on the ground that witness statements, were not disclosed and that there is resulting prejudice to the accused.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The application may be granted by the Magistrate, who would have heard the reasons for non}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 disclosure, and the nature of the evidence not disclosed.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
However the application to adjourn, would be the defence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 s, not the prosecution}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 s.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The result might be to proceed without adjournment (if the ma
gistrate finds there is no prejudice, or if the defence waives its right to disclosure), or to adjourn to another day to allow the defence to read the statement.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Non}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 disclosure cannot lead to an acquittal.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The learned Magistrate therefore quite rightly ignored the issue of disclosure.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 It follows that the affidavits are of no relevance to this appeal.
\par 
\par The same is true of the additional evidence about the whereabouts of prosecution witnesses.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
The record already contains some of this information, and further evidence about the ability of the prosecution to proceed is irrelevant to the question of whether the accused could be acquitted after a refusal of the withdrawal of charges.
\par 
\par The affidavits may not be adduced as evidence.
\par 
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The grounds of appeal}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par 
\par At the hearing of this appeal State counsel submitted that there was no application for an adjournment, by either party.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
Ground (a) would therefore appear to have been abandoned.
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Ground (b) is that the learned Magistrate erred when he said that he could not entertain a part}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 heard trial.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The record shows that the prosecution asked to proceed }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 part}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 heard}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
Counsel said that the prosecution witnesses had appeared on the last hearing date but the Defence was not ready.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
She said that one witness was in Australia, one was sick and one was in a meeting with the Police Commissioner.
\par 
\par The learned Magistrate ruled that the hearing dates had been adjourned thrice, the case was an old one and the reason offered by the prosecution was not }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 good cause.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 He then ruled: }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 I therefore refuse to grant part}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 heard or any further adjournment in this case and I order so accordingly.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par 
\par The learned Magistrate seems to have misunderstood the submissions of State counsel.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 State counsel was not asking for an adjournment.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 If, having come to the end of her witnesses, she}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
then asked for an adjournment to another day, and the learned Magistrate then refused that application (having exercised his discretion judicially), that procedure would have been unexceptionable.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 To treat the prosecution}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 s submissions that they could only proceed with some of their witnesses, as an application for an adjournment was misconceived.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 It forced the prosecution to attempt to withdraw one of the charges on the ground that the available witnesses could not establish a prima facie case.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 No opportunity was given to the prosecution to proceed on the remaining count.
\par 
\par The Court of Appeal in }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Rajesh Chand & Shailesh Kumar }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 v}{
\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  The State}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
 Crim. App. No. AAU0056 of 1999S, considered a situation where a magistrate refused to proceed on a }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 part}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 heard}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  basis, saying that he had been instructed by the Chief Magistrate not to commence any part}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 heard cases for administrative reasons.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The accused was then acquitted.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
That appeal was against an acquittal following the refusal of an application for adjournment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 However the Court}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 s findings on the issue of }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 part}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 heard}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  hearings are relevant.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
At page 4, the Court said:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 It is apparent from his decision that we have reproduced above that he was primarily concerned at the administrative inconvenie
nce and cost to the court of part hearing the case, and the Magistrate then being required to return to Tavua to complete the hearing.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
This is not a proper reason for denying the State the right to have the charges heard and determined by the Court.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 We acc
ept that financial considerations, and the convenience of the Court can be taken into account in determining how and when a case is to be heard, but that can never over}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 ride the interests of justice.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
In the present case, if these factors were considered to be relevant, with the result that a part}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
hearing was inappropriate, the correct course was to adjourn the hearing to a date and time when it could be properly heard and determined.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 By refusing either to part}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
hear the case, or to adjourn it, the Magistrate}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 s decision resulted in an injustice to the State.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par Counsel for the Respondent submits that the Magistrate}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 s decision was proper given the history of the case, and the lack of information provided to the Court by the prosecutor.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 However, the significant difference between this case and }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 State }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}
{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 v}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  Samuela Suguturaga}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  Crim. App. HAA0001.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
2002S, is that in that case it was conceded that the prosecution had applied for an adjournment, and having refused that application the Magistrate had called upon the prosecution to prove its case.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The prosecution chose not to call any evidence, and the acquittal followed.
\par 
\par In this case, there was no request for an adjournment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The record shows that both prosecution and defence were ready to proceed.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Nor did the Magistrate give the prosecution a chance to call the available witnesses.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
The history of the case, and the lack of preparation of the prosecution would only have become relevant when, and if the prosecutor asked for an adjournment, having exhausted all available witnesses.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 In refusing to proceed with the trial when both parties were ready to proceed, on the only ground that he did not wish to }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 part}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 hear}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  the case, the learned Magistrate was in error.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
This ground of appeal succeeds.
\par 
\par The third ground of appeal is that the learned Magistrate erred in acquitting the Respondent under section 210 of the Criminal Procedure Code.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 It is not clear why the learned Magistrate treated the prosecutor}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 s application to withdraw }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 a charge}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  as an application to withdraw both.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Further, havi
ng refused that application, he should then have called upon the prosecution to call its witnesses.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 He did not do so.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 It is not clear why plea was taken again, but the dismissal of the charges under section 210 of the Criminal Procedure Code was obviously 
wrong when the prosecution had not been given a chance to prove its case.
\par 
\par Section 210 of the Criminal Procedure Code provides:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 If at the close of the evidence in support of the charge it appears to the court that a case is not made out against the accus
ed person sufficiently to require him to make a defence, the court shall dismiss the case and shall forthwith acquit the accused.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par Of this provision and the preceding section Pain J said, in }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 DPP }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{
\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 v}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 -}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  Vikash Sharma and Others}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  40 FLR 234, 235:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The procedure for the hearing is contained in section 209.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
It provides that the court }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
shall proceed to hear the witnesses for the prosecution and any other witnesses.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 In this case the Magistrate should have advised the parties that he was proceeding with the hearing
 and called upon the prosecutor to begin.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 If the prosecutor then called no evidence section 210 would apply.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 There would be no evidence to make out a case against the Defendant and the court in terms of section 210 }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
shall dismiss the case and shall forthwith acquit the accused}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 .}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par In this case, if the learned Magistrate had called upon the prosecution to begin, the prosecutor would have started to call her witnesses.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
By failing to take this step, the learned Magistrate erred, and there was a resulting injustice to the State.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
It should be remembered that it is, in general terms, in the public interest, that charges which are brought before the court, should be heard.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 This is even more important in cases where there has been delay in the court processes since the laying of the charge.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The third ground of appeal is also successful.
\par 
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Summary}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par 
\par The learned Magistrate erred in refusing to allow the prosecution to commence with its available witnesses, and erred in acquitting the Respondent on the two counts.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 The acquittals are quashed and the case is remitted to the Magistrates Court for a new hearing date to be set.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1913542 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 Nazhat Shameem
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 JUDGE}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1913542 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 At Suva
\par 16}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542 th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12791368\charrsid1913542  August 2002
\par }}