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\par }\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Appellants \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 - and - \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 THE STATE \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Respondent \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par Mr. H. Robinson for the Appellants \par Mr. J. Rabuku for the State \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 JUDGMENT \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 On the }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 8}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 th}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 of November 2001}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 all eight }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (8)}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 appellants and a juvenile appeared }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 in custody from Savusavu}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 before the }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Labasa Magistrates Court}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 They were jointly charged with an offence of }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Rape}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 .}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 The appellants}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 were unrepresented at the time and the court record indicates that all elected a Magistrate Court trial and all pleaded }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 guilty}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 to the charge after it was read and explained to them.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Thereafter the appellants along with the juvenile were remanded in custody to enable them }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 to seek legal advice}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 before the facts were outlined to the Court. \par \par The trial was further adjourned on two }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (2) }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 more occasions to enable counsel from the }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Legal Aid Commission}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 who now appeared for the appellants}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 ,} {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 to be provided with relevant disclosures by the prosecution, }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 and}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 to give her time }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 ...... to confirm }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (her) }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 assessment of the evidence with }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (her)}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 head office in Suva}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 .}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 In the meantime the juvenile engaged separate counsel and was successful in getting his earlier plea changed to one of }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 not guilty}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 . \par \par On the }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 20}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 th}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 December 2001}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 when the case was next called in Court counsel for the eight }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (8)}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 appellants is recorded to have said}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 I have gone through their disclosures and from what they}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 ve told me and }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (I have) }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 formed the opinion that they are guilty.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 But otherwise they maintain they are not guilty.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Under the circumstances, seek leave to withdraw appearing for 1}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 st}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 to 8}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 th}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 accused.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 This was, if I may say so, an extraordinarily inappropriate stateme nt for counsel to make and reveals a singular lack of understanding and appreciation of her duty and role as defence counsel as clearly set out in }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Chapter 5}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 of the }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Rules of Professional Conduct and Practice}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 which forms a }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Schedule}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 to the }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Legal Practitioners Act 1997}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 In particular, }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Rule 5.06}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 which reads}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 ...... a practitioner}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 s duty to defend a person on criminal charges shall not be affected by the practitioner}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 s opinion regarding the guilt or innocence of the client.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Furthermore the correct approach to an application by defence counsel to withdraw from a case was discussed in the judgment of the }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Privy Council}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 in }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Dunkley v. The Queen }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (1995) 1 A.C.}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 419}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 where their lordships said at }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 p.428} {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 In the first place where counsel appearing for a defendant ...... seeks leave to withdraw during the course of the trial, the trial judge should do all he can to persuade him to remain ......}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 The trial judge should only permit withdrawal if he is satisfied that the defendant will not suffer significant prejudice thereby.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 and, in words that might equally describe what occurred in this case, their lordships continued}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 :}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 ...... although the judge did not encourage } {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (defence counsel) }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 to withdraw he made no attempt to dissuade him and it does not appear that he considered the possibility }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (of) }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 alternative representation.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 } {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Indeed he allowed the trial to proceed as though nothing had happened without even so much as an adjournment until the following morning.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 In somewhat similar vein, in this case leave was readily granted by the Court }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 for }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (counsel) }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 to withdraw appearing for 1}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 st}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 to 8}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 th}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 accused}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 and }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 without so much as an adjournment}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 the case continued.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 The now unrepresented appellants are then collectively recorded to have said}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 :}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 We wish to be dealt with now.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 We had already pleaded guilty.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Don}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 t want any counsel to defend as we are pleading guilty.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par At this point the juvenile who had been jointly charged together with the appellants as the 9}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 accused and who,}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 had been permitted to change his plea to }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 not guilty}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 , was rele ased on bail on the application of his counsel with the agreement of the prosecutor. \par \par After that, the trial of the eight }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (8)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 appellants continued with the police prosecutor briefly outlining the facts of the case.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 These were admitted and the trial magistrate proceeded to convict the appellants and, after hearing each in mitigation, the trial magistrate sentenced each appellant to }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 5 years}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 imprisonment. \par \par The incident is alleged to have occurred at night in a dark house, and, although the appellants police interviews are mentioned in the facts, none were actually produced for the trial magistrate}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 s perusal nor had he requested them.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 This }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 omission}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 is all the more significant when one considers that the complainant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 s medical examination report which was produced to the trial magistrate, twice records that }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 ...... she was raped by 4 youths ......}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 .}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 How }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 4}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 became }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 9}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '?}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 remains an unresolved mystery which the trial magistrate either ignored or over-looked. \par \par State Counsel on being confronted with the }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 poser}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 at the hearing of the appeal, sought refuge in }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Section 309}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 of the }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 C.P.C.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 which disallows any appeal against conviction}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 : }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 ...... in the case of a person who has pleaded guilty and has been convicted on such plea by a magistrates court ......}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par \par The }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Section}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 however, is undoubtedly subject to the Constitution and is necessarily confined in its application to a guilty}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 plea which is }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 unequivocal}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 not only as to the admitted facts outlined in support of it but also in regard to the circumstances and understanding of the particular accused person [}{ \i\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 see}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 the observations of the }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Fiji Court of Appeal}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 in }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Ram Sami Naidu v. R}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 . }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Cr. App. No. 34 of 1984}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (unreported) }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 and }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 per}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Grant C.J.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 in }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 D.P.P. v. Jolame Pita}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (1974) 20 F.L.R. 5}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 at }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 6}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 and }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Gyan Deo v. R}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 . }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (1976)}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 22 F.L.R.}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 at }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 2}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 ]. \par \par In this regard too, in}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 State v. Surend Singh & Others}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Suva Cr. App. No. 79 of 2000}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Shameem J.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 observed (at }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 p.3}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 )}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 The appellate court, may consider}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 the plea}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 ........ whether it was an unequivocal plea of guilty.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 If for instance, there is evidence of improper pressure on the accused to plead guilty, that plea, the conviction and sentence can be set aside on appeal, and/or }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (the matter)}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 sent back to the Magistrates Court for re-trial on a plea of not guilty }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Brennan}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (1941) 28 Cr. App. R.41)}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 .}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 In this latter regard it is significant that defence counsel is recorded to have said, during the course of the proceedings, that she required the prosecution disclosures in order}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 ...... to confirm what }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (the appellants)}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 told me that they had been forced to plead guilty.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Be that as it may, State Counsel frankly admits that, in the absence of an identification parade and the appellant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 s guilty pleas, the prosecution}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 s case is principally, if not entirely, based on the}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 caution interview records}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 of the appellants and the complainant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 s medical report.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 This Court is not privy to the interview records}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 which each appellant claims was recorded }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 ...... using coercive methods}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 , and therefore is unaware of the precise admissions (if any) contained therein.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Suffice it to say neither was the trial magistrate when he convicted the appellants. \par \par The appellants all lodged individual letters appealing against their convictions and sentences on various grounds and these were subsequently refined and supplemented by }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 formal grounds of appeal filed by counsel which reads}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890\charrsid15549890 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 }{ \b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 1.\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls2\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 THAT}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 the Learned Magistrate was wrong in law in failing to advise the appellants to obtain legal advice before allowing them to take a guilty plea. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 2.\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls2\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 THAT}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 the learned Magistrate was wrong in law and in fact in not appreciating that he was duty bound to advise the Appellants of the implications of a guilty plea especially when they were unrepresented. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 3.\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls2\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 THAT}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 the learned Magistrate was wrong in law and in fact in failing to exercise his discretion judiciously when granting leave to the legal aid solicitor to withdraw from representing the Appellants given the Constitutional rights of the Appellants to be represented. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 4.\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls2\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 THAT}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 the Learned Magistrate erred in law in sentencing the Appellants at the time given the likelihood of a change of plea. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 5.\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls2\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 THAT}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 in the interest of justice and the reversionary powers of this Honourable Court that the conviction be set aside and a retrial ordered. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par At the hearing of the appeal counsel for the appellants argued grounds }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 1, 2 & 3}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 together}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 relying on the unreported judgments of }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Shameem J.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 in}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Surend Singh}{ \b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 s}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 case }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (op. cit)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 and }{ \b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Epeli Duve and Others v. State}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Suva Cr. App. 28 of 2002}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 . \par \par These judgments deal }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 inter alia}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 with the constitutional right of an accused person to counsel}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 ;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 the procedure to be followed by a court in affording the right to an unrepresented accused person}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 ;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 and the circumstances in which the right may be waived by an accused person.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 There are also helpful observations on the nature of an unequivocal plea and the circumstances in which the Co urt may exercise its discretion to permit or enter a change of plea. \par \par State Counsel in response, accepted that the trial magistrate had }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 not}{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 strictly complied with the procedure laid down in the above-mentioned judgments in so far as the appellants right to counsel was not explained to them }{ \b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 before}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 the charge was read and/or their pleas recorded.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par \par Notwithstanding that, counsel submits that the appellants were subsequently advised by the trial magistrate to seek legal advice }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 and}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 they were in fact represented by counsel from the }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Legal Aid Commission}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 during part of the proceedings, }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 and}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 , accordingly, just as the juvenile had sought through his counsel and was permitted to change his plea, similarly, the appellants could have done the same had they been similarly inclined.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Instead, counsel stresses, the appellants maintained their }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 guilty}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 pleas even }{ \b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 after}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 their counsel had withdrawn from the case }{ \fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 and}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 , furthermore, the appellants had admitted the facts outlined by the prosecutor which plainly supported the charge. \par \par In the circumstances State Counsel submits that the }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 technical defect}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 in the procedure adopted by the trial magistrate did not prejudice the appellants in any way }{ \fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 or}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 render equivocal their }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 guilty}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 pleas and therefore, may be safely ignored.} {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890\charrsid15549890 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 I cannot ag ree with the submission which assumes in the face of contrary indications, that defence counsel had discharged her duties diligently and with the interests of the appellants at the forefront of her concerns.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Also noteworthy, by its absence, is any entry in the court record,}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 that the trial magistrate had, in convicting the appellants, disabused himself of defence counsel}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 s highly prejudicial opinion}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 : }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 that }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (the appellants)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 are guilty}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 . \par \par That is sufficiently to dispose of this appeal, however Counsel for the appellants also doubted the validity of the charge relying on the unreported judgment of }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Townsley J.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (as he then was) in }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Livinia Tavisa and 2 Others v. State}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Suva Cr. App. R. 30 of 1997}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 where his lordship said, in quashing the conviction of the appellants who were jointly charged with }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Rape}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 , in form, identical to that in the present charge, (at }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 pp.3/4}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 )}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 ...... whether perfectly valid pleas of guilty should be set aside or not, a clearer reason exists for overturning the findings, conviction and sentences in this case. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 It is that the charge and findings or convictions based upon it are void for uncertainty.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 There cannot be 4 separate acts of Rape rolled up in the one count. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 The charge as laid can only refer to one act of rape.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 It does not specify who was the actual rapist, and who were the aiders and abettors.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Such particulars must be furnished to accused where the prosecution is proceeding on one count only of Rape.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 It cannot relate to 4 different individual acts. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 It is only by alleging one offender}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 s act of rape, and the other three as aiders and abettors, (or otherwise caught as parties to the offence), that one can have a charge in its present form. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 The convictions of individual acts of rape by the Appellants cannot stand.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 State Counsel who was somewhat taken by surprise by counsel}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 s submission on the charge, referred to }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Section 121}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 of the }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 C.P.C.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 as authority for the form of the charge and the joinder of the appellants. \par \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Section 121}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 of the }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 C.P.C.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 expressly permits the joinder of the following persons in one charge, namely}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 :}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (a)\tab persons accused of the same offence committed in the course of the same transaction}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 ;}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s17 \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (1)\tab}}\pard\plain \s17\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls2\ilvl1\outlinelevel1\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 persons accused of an offence and persons accused of abetment, or of an attempt to commit such offence}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890\charrsid15549890 ;}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s17 \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (2)\tab}}\pard\plain \s17\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls2\ilvl1\outlinelevel1\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 persons accused of different offenc es provided that all offences are founded on the same facts, or form or are part of a series of offences of the same or a similar character}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890\charrsid15549890 ;}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s17 \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (3)\tab}}\pard\plain \s17\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls2\ilvl1\outlinelevel1\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 persons accused of different offences committed in the course of the same transaction.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890\charrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par Having carefully considered the competing submissions I am more than satisfied that the joinder of all 8 appellants in a single charge of }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Rape}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 is sanctioned under }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 paragraphs (a)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 and possibly }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (d)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 above. \par \par I am also mindful that no objection was ever taken to the form of the charge or to the joinder of all 8 appellants in the one charge.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 In this regard }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Section 342}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 of the }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 C.P.C.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 relevantly provides that}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 No finding, sentence or order passed by a magistrate}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 s court ...... shall be ...... altered on appeal or revision on account of an y objection to any information, (or) complaint ...... for any alleged defect therein in matter of substance or form ......, unless it be found that such objection was raised before the magistrate}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 ' }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 s court whose decision is appealed from}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 ,}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 ......}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 and the proviso to }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Section 78(3)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 of the }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 C.P.C.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 plainly states that}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 ...... a formal charge duly signed by (a) police officer shall, for the purposes of this Code, be deemed to be a complaint}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 ' }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 . \par \par I am also fortified by the judgment of the }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Fiji Court of Appeal}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 in }{ \b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Alipate Vokai and 21 Others v. R}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 .}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (1981) 27 F.L.R.}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 16}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 where the Court in rejecting a similar argument as that advanced by counsel for the appellants in this case, said at }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 p.22}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 The other aspect of the matter, the allegation that there was wrongful joinder of more than one person in a single count, is more complex.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 It applies to Counts 1, 3, 6 and 7 only.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Section 120 applies to cover cases of duplicity but subsection (2) in our view is intended to apply to more than one offence by the same person, leaving join der of persons to be covered by section 121. The justification for the joinder in the present case would fall within subparagraphs (c) and/or (d) and we do not find any convincing reason why the words }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 charge or information}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 as used in the section should be construed as excluding the meaning where appropriate, of }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 a count}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 in such a charge or information.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 The elasticity which can be given to the meaning of such phrases is well illustrated by the judgment of their Lordships of the Privy Council in Attorney General v. Hari Pratap }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (Privy Council Appeal No. 10 of 1969) }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 on appeal from this Court.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 In our opinion section 121(c) and (d) are to be construed in the light of the words used by Lord Diplock in the House of Lords in D.P.P. v. Merriman (1972) 56 Cr. App. R . 766 at 796 - \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Where a number of acts of a similar nature committed by one or more defendants were connected with one another, in the time and place of their commission or by their common purpose, in such a way that they could fairly be regarded as form ing part of the same transaction or criminal enterprise, it was the practice, as early as the eighteenth century, to charge them in a single count of an indictment.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Where such a count was laid against more than one defendant, the jury could find each of t}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 hem guilty of one offence only; } {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 but a failure by the prosecution to prove the allegation, formerly expressly stated in the indictment but now only implicit in their joinder in the same count, that the unlawful acts of each were done jointly in aid of one an other, did not render the indictment ex post facto bad or invalidate the jury}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 s verdict against those found guilty.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 To quote Hawkins again}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 :}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 On such indictment ...... some of the defendants may be acquitted, and others convicted}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 ;}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 for the law regards the ch arge as several against each, though the words of it purport only a joint charge against all.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 That appears to us exactly to cover the counts to which objection is taken here and in our opinion it was open to the learned magistrate to convict or acquit any of the persons included in the charges in question.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 We therefore reject this ground of appeal.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 For the foregoing reasons the appeal is allowed and the convictions of all eight }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 (8)}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 appellants are quashed and the sentences set aside.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 '}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Not Guilty}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 pleas are entered in respect of each appellant and the case is returned to the }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Magistrate Court}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 for trial before a different magistrate.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 The appellants are further remanded to appear before the }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 Magistrate Court}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 on a date to be notified to them within 14 days. \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15549890 D.V. Fatiaki}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par JUDGE}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15549890 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 At Labasa, \par 23}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 rd}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2384632\charrsid15549890 July, 2002. \par }}