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{\title Ethan Frome}{\author EW/LN/CB}{\keywords Ethan}{\operator raikatalau_l}{\creatim\yr2011\mo4\dy1\hr10\min29}{\revtim\yr2011\mo8\dy22\hr10\min26}{\printim\yr2004\mo9\dy1\hr20\min27}{\version6}{\edmins8}{\nofpages11}{\nofwords4244}{\nofchars24196}
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\f181\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid11892947 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par AT SUVA
\par APPELLATE JURISDICTION
\par }\pard \s15\qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5076112 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid5076112 
\par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5076112 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947 CRIMINAL APPEAL NO.: HAA0}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid5076112 
052 OF 2004
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\par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5076112 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid5076112 BETWEEN:
\par }\pard \s15\qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5076112 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid5076112 
\par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5076112 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid11892947 CHANDRA SHEKAR}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid5076112 
 f/n Shiu Sundar
\par }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid11892947 BIMAL SHANKAR}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid5076112  f/n Hari Shankar
\par Applicant
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\par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5076112 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid11892947 STATE
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid5076112 Respondent
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\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Counsel:}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2765606  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Mr. M. Raza & Mr. S.D. Sahu Khan \endash  for Applicant

\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid5076112 Mr. B. Solanki \endash  for State
\par 
\par Date of Hearing:}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2765606\charrsid5076112  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid5076112 20th August, 2004
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2765606\charrsid5076112 Date of Judgment: }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid5076112 3rd September, 2004
\par 
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\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid5076112 Background
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid5076112 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The first appellant was the Director of the National Road Safety Council (NRSC).}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The second appellant was the Marketing Manager of Above Graphic Limited a company carrying out graphic works and printing.
\par 
\par NRSC used the Company for their design works and printing.
\par 
\par It was alleged by the Prosecution that the first appellant received and the second appellant gave what amounted to secret commissions.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 These payments being made to secure the Company NRSC\rquote s ongoing graphic works and printing.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The charges are set out in detail in pages 13 and 14 of the appeal book.
\par 
\par \tab The appellants were both convicted of their respective charges and on the 31st of March 2004 sentenced to 6 months imprisonment.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
They have both appealed against conviction.
\par 
\par \tab The State was dissatisfied with the 6 months term of imprisonment imposed and have appealed against the leniency of this sentence. 
\par 
\par I propose to deal with the conviction appeal first.
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The Conviction Appeal
\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947 
\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Ground 1
\par }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93The learned trial Magistrate erred in law in convicting the appellants f
or the offences as charged when the charges as framed did not disclose any offence known to law and/or when the charges were defective in substance and in form\'94.
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\par The first appellant submitted that counts 1 to 3 remain fatally defective.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 It is alleged that
 what is omitted from the particulars in counts 1 to 3 are:
\par 
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\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Who the first appellant received the money from.
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\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Whether the alleged payments were for himself or another person.
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\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Whether the payments were made as an inducement or reward.
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\par Counts 1 to 3 are famed in exactly the same way but for the amount of money said to have been received.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
It was submitted that these missing elements were so essential that the conviction could not be sustained as it was founded upon a charge that disclosed no offence. 
\par 
\par The same argument was raised in respect of omitted particulars from counts 4 to 6.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 It was submitted that the missing particulars were:

\par 
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\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls3\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The element of \lquote an agent\rquote  and 
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\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls3\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The element of inducement or reward.
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\par In support of their argument counsel cited amongst other cases a passage from }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Smith v Moody}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
 [1903] 1 KB 56 page 61 where Justice Wills said:
\par 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93
When one comes to the description of the offence itself, then it is quite sufficient if it is described in the terms of the statute, however general they may be.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
At the same time the old rule must prevail, that whatever is necessary to show that the person convicted has done something which brought him within the words of the statute must be specified.\'94
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par It was strongly submitted that the absence of these elements meant that there was no offence known to law disclosed in them, particularly no offence under section 376(a).}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 It was further submitted that while it may be tempting to draw an inference from the evidence of trial about the proper conte
nt of the charges nonetheless such evidence cannot remedy the omission from a charge of any essential ingredient }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid15889416 (}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid15889416 
DPP v }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15889416\charrsid15889416 Etu}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid15889416 i}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid15889416  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15889416\charrsid15889416 [1975] }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid15889416 22 FLR 4 at page 7/e).}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par 
\par For the State it was conceded that the charges may well have been loosely framed.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 However, it was forcefully
 submitted that the proper section of the act had been quoted and the particulars of the offence contained sufficient material to put both of the appellants on proper notice about the nature of the charges they faced.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Counsel sought to distinguish }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Tui (supra)}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
 on the basis that the learned Chief Justice was there dealing with a case in which there was a complete and serious defect in the statement of the offence not merely a lack of accuracy in the particulars.
\par 
\par Further, counsel relied heavily on the cure all provision contained in section 342 of the Criminal Procedure Code that:}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947\charrsid2765606 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93No finding, sentence or order passed by a magistrates\rquote 
 court of competent jurisdiction shall be reserved or altered on appeal or revision on
 account of any objection to any information, complaints, summon or warrant for any alleged defect therein in the matter of substance or form or for any variance between such information, complaint, summons or warrant and the evidence adduced in support t
hereof, unless it be found that such objection was raised before the magistrates\rquote  court whose decision is appealed from, nor unless it be found that notwithstanding it was shown to the magistrates\rquote 
 court that by such variance the appellant had been deceived or mislead, such magistrates\rquote  court refused to adjourn the hearing of the case to a future day: Provided that if the appellant was not at the hearing before the magistrates\rquote 
 court represented by a [legal practitioner], the High Court may allow such objection to be raised.\'94
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par It was submitted that both appellants were represented and that legal counsel had raised no objection to the form of the counts during the course of proceedings and so accordingly there was no prejudice to the appellants as a result of 
the omission of any word or phrase within }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947 the particulars of the offence.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par 
\par I find that on a technical reading of the particulars of the offence each charge fails to clearly state that the sums obtained were for an \'93inducement\'94 or \'93reward\'94.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The drafter of the charges preferring to use the phrase \'93as a commission for awarding\'94 the contract.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 In a technical sense receiving a commission for awarding a contract may have a completely different substantive meaning to receiving a sum of money as an \'93inducement\'94 or as a \'93
reward\'94 for awarding a contract.
\par 
\par However, I find that this omission is not so grave as to bring the offences within the }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Tui (supra)}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  category.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par 
\par When read as a whole the counts clearly relate to allegations of secret commissions and corrupt practices under Section 376(a).}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
It is clear from the particulars of the offences that in the case of the first appellant the allegation was a corrupt action in receiving sums of money for awarding contracts to above Graphic Limited.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }
{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The first appellant was represented by able counsel.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
If there be any doubt the proviso contained in section 342 in my mind would meet any defect without causing any prejudice to the appellant.
\par 
\par For similar reasons I find that counts 4 to 6 involving the second appellant while poorly drafted and omitting the language of the statute in the particulars of the offence nonetheless cannot have created any prejudicial effect.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Again the defects are not so serious that they fall into the }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Tui}
{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606  category (supra) and are cured by application of Section 342 of the Criminal Procedure Code.
\par 
\par Accordingly, the first ground of appeal for both appellants fails.
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Ground 2
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947\charrsid11892947 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93The learned trial Magistrate did n
ot adequately and/or properly direct himself and/or misdirected himself on the issue of the standard and onus of proof\'94.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par Counsel forcefully submitted that the learned trial Magistrate failed to express in clear language his obligations regarding both the burden and onus of proof in a criminal trial.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 He said in particular that at various passages of his judgment the learned Magistrate demonstrated by what he said a lack of clarity on these issues. 
\par 
\par Counsel submitted that his worship became confused between the traditional burden and onus of proof and the negative averment provided for in section 378 of the Penal Code.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 By this provision once the prosecution have proved the giving or receiving of monies then the onus falls on the accused to show that the giving or receiving was not corrupt.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The Section is one of those rare exceptions where the onus falls on an accused to prove a probable honest explanation for his actions.}
{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par 
\par Counsel submitted that the lack of clarity in these passages of the judgment leads to 
the possible inference that the learned Magistrate had applied the wrong basic test. That aspect of the trial gained particular significance it was said because the appellants prime defence was a total denial of either receiving or giving the money.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Counse
l were concerned that the correct burden of proof had not been placed on the prosecution particularly by reference to this phrase:}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 

\par 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93\'85\'85\'85..Accused 1 himself has not proved to me that he didn\rquote 
t take the money and Accused 2 that he didn\rquote t give the money\'94. (page 156)
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par That passage while creating this impression, was with respect, lifted by appellants counsel out of a lengthy judgment and decision.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
Isolated consideration of such extracts is often misleading.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 These individual passages need to be read in the full
 context of an entire judgment.
\par 
\par I am satisfied that the learned Magistrate was not confused and did indeed have the correct onus and burden in mind.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
I note in particular that he reminds himself of the most basic requirements at the beginning of his judgment (page 149):
\par 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93
To begin with I must warn myself that this is a criminal case in which the Prosecution needs to prove all the elements of the offences with which the two accused have been charged\'85\'85\'85\'85\'85.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }
{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 If prosecution fails to prove one element both the accused are liable to be acquitted.\'94
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par And again later in his decision (page 156):}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947\charrsid2765606 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93
Therefore in view of all above I am satisfied that prosecution had proved beyond reasonable doubt that Chandra Shekar has received payment as an agent from Bimal Shankar\'85\'85 ..}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Accordingly, the burden as laid down in Section 378 of the Penal Code Cap.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 17 shifts to the two accused persons to prove to the Court that taking and giving of money in the case was not corrupt.\'94
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par The phrase complained of by appellants counsel was itself submitted out of its proper context in full:
\par 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93
I am satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that the first accused did receive the money from second accused on the basis of PW.1\rquote s evidence supported by the documentary evidence exhibits 1 to 10 and that of prosec
ution witnesses 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 and Accused 1 himself has not proved to me that he didn\rquote t take and money and Accused 2 that he didn\rquote t give the money\'94.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par Words and phrases in a judgment on evidence are the only indication of a judicial officer\rquote s thought process.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
It is important that the words and phrases we use are accurate. However, individual words and collections of phrases need to be read in context.
\par 
\par Any suggestion that the learned Magistrate may have had the burden and onus of proof incorrectly in mind during the course of his judgment is completely rejected.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Ground 2 fails.
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Ground 3
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947\charrsid11892947 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93The learned trial Magistrate erred in law and in fact in failing 
to take into account the statement of the second appellant not made on oath and/or adversely commenting on the second appellant not giving evidence on oath.\'94
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par It was submitted by learned counsel for the appellant that this ground was primarily based on a comment by the learned trial Magistrate found at page 158: 
\par 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93
In my view this particular Accused 2 (second appellant) had a lot of explaining to do.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 However, he opted to remain silent.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 A question asked here is was this a Defence ploy so as not to open up the Pandora\rquote s box.\'94
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par In reliance on classic jury trial statements protecting the right to silence and preventing adverse comment about the exercise of that right counsel submitted that the learned Magistrate\rquote s judgment demonstrated a prejudice against the se
cond appellant because of his failure to give evidence.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
Counsel went on further to point out that in actual fact the second accused had not remained mute.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 He had given an unsworn statement.

\par 
\par The State replied that in fact the learned Magistrate did take into account the unsworn evidence of the second appellant.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
This is reflected at page 156 of the trial record.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Counsel submitted there was no demonstrable prejudice against accused 2.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par 
\par In }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid4269977 Mano Datt Sharma v R}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid4269977 , }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4269977\charrsid4269977 [1969] }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid4269977 15 FLR 136}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606  Thompson J was discussing the need for transparency and accuracy of process in judgments.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 At page 139 on an unrelated topic his honour said:
\par 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93In so far as the judgment indicates the learned Magistrate\rquote 
s process of thought in considering the evidence adduced there was nothing to show that he took the defence case and the evidence in support of it into consideration at all\'85\'85..(and later) \'85\'85\'85\'85
in this case there may well have been good reasons for rejecting the evidence of the accused and of the witnesses called on his behalf.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 But there is nothing in the judgment to indicate that that evidence was taken into account at all\'85\'85\'85\'85
.it is not simply a matter of implicitly rejecting evidence of an apparently far fetched story told by the accused (or his witnesses)\'85\'85\'85\'94.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par In a similar case our now Chief Justice commenting on the \'93bolstering\'94 of a case against one accused from evidence only admissible against another had this to say on the issue of transparency in }{
\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Avinesh Krishna and Tukoli Visawaqa}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12197115  [1999]}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606  45 FLR 180:
\par 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93
In the present case it was all the more incumbent on the trial Magistrate to not only clearly identify and deal with the evidence against each accused separately given his assessment of the complainant\rquote s
 credibility and its apparent indivisibility, but also, because the nature of the defences differed in material respects.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
It was more than just a bare denial of opportunity.\'94
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par It is always difficult when sitting as both a trier of fact and law to separate out those two judicial processes and be careful to transparently and clearly state the principles and propositions upon which one is basing a judgment.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The offending passage has two major defects.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 First it indicates that the learned Magistrate had overlooked the second appellant\rquote s unsworn statement from the dock.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Second, it is overt criticism against him for remaining silent.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
The irresistible inference must be that this influenced the ultimate judgment.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 That is not acceptable.
\par 
\par In their amplified response to this ground the State submitted that the decision to give unsworn evidence and not to address the presumption but to merely deny the payment was a considered one.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Accordingly it was submitted the learned Magistrate had every right to note the deliberate nature of those choices particularly where the burden of explaining \'93the giving\'94 and \'93
the receiving\'94 lay on these appellants.
\par 
\par The difficulty with that reasoning is that the learned Magistrate didn\rquote t go on to qualify his statement in that way.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
The learned Magistrate did not, as the State properly concedes, go on to consider the unsworn evidence of the second appellant and its possible impact on the trial.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 This aspect of the matter will receive further consideration later in this judgment.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 For present purposes I uphold this ground and find for the second appellant.
\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par Ground 4
\par }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93
The learned trial Magistrate erred in law in totally omitting to direct his mind to the fact that this was a joint trial and therefore the need to consider evidence against each appellant on each count separately\'94.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par Counsel submitted that it was a primary and fundamental duty of each trial magistrate to correctly direct their minds to the evidence that may be admissible against one accused but which may not be admissible against a co-accused.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 In reliance on }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Krishna (supra)}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606  counsel submitted that the learned Magistrate failed to clearly identify and deal with the evidence against each of the accused separately.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
It was submitted that this failure must lead to the inevitable conclusion that the learned Magistrate may well have bolstered the case against one accused by relying on evidence only admissible against the other.
\par 
\par In that regard counsel highlighted:
\par 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 1.\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls4\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxta .}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls4\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The use of the second appellant\rquote 
s record of interview against the first appellant in the context of corroborative evidence (page 150).
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 2.\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls4\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxta .}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls4\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The use of inadmissible hearsay evidence of PW.4 relating to a discussion he had with the second appellan
t in the absence of the first appellant (cf page 152 and record 62, 63).
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 3.\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls4\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxta .}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls4\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 A similar complaint over PW.1\rquote 
s report of what the second appellant said in the absence of the first appellant (cf page 153).
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 4.\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls4\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxta .}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls4\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
A similar criticism in respect of PW.3 of statements made by the second appellant about the first appellant but in the first appellant\rquote s absence.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par It was submitted that there was more than a likelihood that the Magistrate had used otherwise inadmissible evidence of a co-accused to bolster the case against his accomplice. 
\par 
\par The State\rquote s answer was to simply note the difference between an \'93assessor\'94 and \'93summar}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947 y\'94 trial and submit it was not i}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 ncumbent on the learned Magistrate in his judgment to be as forceful or transparent as one might be when dealing with a jury or assessors.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 It was submitted there was no obvious miscarriage of justice.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 I disagree.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par 
\par I prefer the reasoning earlier sighted from learned Chief Justice Fatiaki and Justice Thompson (supra).}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The r
equirements of a multi accused trial are the same whether the trial is proceeding before a jury/assessors or a judge alone.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par 
\par The words and phrases used by a learned Magistrate are all that remains on appeal to indicate the judicial thought process in considering the evidence adduced.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 In this case care was required to indicate that otherwise inadmissible evidence against an accused was not used to bolster the case against him. 
\par 
\par In each of the examples given by the appellants the learned Magistrate has taken into account inadmissible evidence against a co-accused or at least that is an available inference from the words used in the judgment. I also uphold this ground of appeal.

\par 
\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Ground 5
\par }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93The learned trial Magistrate did not adequately and/or properly and/o
r misdirected himself on the issue of corroboration\'94.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par Counsel submitted that while the learned Magistrate (pages 11 and 12) reminded himself in his judgment about the need to treat PW.1 as an accomplice he nonetheless did not practically apply the rule an
d clearly demonstrate that he respected the dangers inherent in reliance on the evidence of an accomplice.
\par 
\par The ground was somewhat refined during argument and came down to this.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
It was submitted that the learned Magistrate had failed to use admissible and independent evidence as corroborative of the accomplice\rquote s statement.
\par 
\par Counsel refe}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947 rred to the following examples:}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 1.\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls5\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxta .}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls5\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Exhibits 1 to 10 (a)(b) 150.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 I accept counsel\rquote s submission that none of the documentary evidence was independent of PW.1.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The relevant documents are at best authored by the witness himself.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
In fact PW.1 acknowledged (page 42 of the record) that:
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93\'85\'85there is no documentary evidence acknowledgement or }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947 signed \'93as received\'94 by Shekar.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 2.\tab Regarding the witness Abdul Wahid, it wa
s said that the learned Magistrate fell into error by taking into account hearsay evidence against the first appellant as corroborative of PW.1\rquote s statements (page 152 of the record).}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 I agree.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 3.\tab Regarding the use of hearsay (page 153 (a)(b)) a report of a
 conversation in which it was said X was sent by the first appellant to make enquiries about a police investigation.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
Inadmissible as the first appellant was not present when this accusation was made.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 I agree.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 4.\tab Use of the evidence of Usaia Korodrau (PW No.3).}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
Again statements made about the first appellant in his absence. These are not admissible against the first appellant and are certainly not independent and corroborative.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 I agree.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par State\rquote 
s counsel did not come to grips with this particular argument and failed to appreciate that it had been refined to a point of submission that the learned Magistrate had taken into account otherwise inadmissible evidence as independent and corroborative of
 an accomplice statement.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 That can\rquote t be so.
\par 
\par The particular requirements of a multi accused trial appear to have been overlooked by the learned Magistrate.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
No reference was made of the need to consider the \'93corroboration\'94 question separately in the case of each accused. That is not satisfactory and I uphold ground 5 of the appeal.
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Ground 6
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947\charrsid11892947 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93
The learned trial Magistrate did not adequately and/ properly and/or failed to consider the defence case\'94.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par It was submitted by appellants counsel that the learned trial Magistrate totally ignored or omitted to consider the defence case.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
It was said the only reference he made to the defence case was found on page 154 of the record where he said:
\par 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93All I have to say in nut-shell is that the Defence case is largely based o
n the pretext that the allegations made against Chandar Shekar and Bimal Shankar is to sabotage Chandar Shekar from taking the post of Chief Executive Officer of the Land Transport Authority\'94.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par It was submitted that while that was one of the motives for these allegations it was not the defence case.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
The defence was rather that the first appellant never obtained and the second appellant never gave any \'93secret commission\'94 as alleged in each and every one of the six counts.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The onus was therefore on the Prosecution to prove the allegations set out in the 6 counts beyond reasonable doubt.
\par 
\par The first appellant gave evidence on oath denying the allegations.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 He also gave explanations of his contact with the second appellant.
}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Counsel also referred to the prosecution
 evidence of Zarin Ali who testified that the money was for promotions rather than commission.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
It was further submitted that there was no clear consideration of the evidence of systems within NRSC regarding the awarding of company contracts.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The prosecution witness Rajesh Narayan detailed this process for the Court.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 He also noted that the first appellant had approved his co-operation with the police in the conduct of their investigation.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par 
\par It was then suggested that there was no reconciliation of the positive evidence of PW.1 that he had never asked the second appellant why he made payments to the first.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Defence counsel further criticized the learned Magistrate for failing to properly address the records of interview.
\par 
\par Finally appellants counsel pointed out that the learned Magistrate totally accepted PW.1 as a reliable truthful and credible witness (page 156 (a)(b)) without reconciling the defence evidence of two witnesses attacking PW.1\rquote s integrity.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Consideration of their evidence it was said could have caste some doubt on the credibility of PW.1. 
\par 
\par The learned trial Magistrate was of course free to reject the defence case on the basis of a strong and overwhelming body of evidence presented by the State.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 I accept that the learned Magistrate is not required t
o write all of the relevant evidence in his judgment nonetheless there is a need to demonstrate that he took the defence case and the evidence in support of it into consideration.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 I repeat the words of Justice Thompson it is not simply a matter of implicitly rejecting evidence of an apparently far fetched story drummed up by an accused or his witnesses.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 It is rather a matter of demonstrating a transparent thought process of considering and sifting the evidence that was adduced.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 While the learned Magistrate 
may have rejected the defence case there was nothing to show that he considered it and the evidence in support of it.
\par 
\par Accordingly I uphold ground no. 6.
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Ground 7
\par }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93
That the learned trial Magistrate erred in law and in fact in failing to consider the character of the appellant in determining the defence case\'94.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par Evidence that an accused has a good character goes particularly to credit but also to the unlikelihood that the accused would have committed the offence (}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 R v}{
\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Bilas}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606  [1966] 1 ALL ER 552).}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Evidence of 
good character may be given on the part of the accused by his calling witnesses to give evidence there on, by giving evidence himself or by eliciting it in cross-examination of state witnesses.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The character proved:
\par 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls6\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls6\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 must be of the specific kind impeached; for example honesty where dishonesty is charged

\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls6\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls6\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
must be general in character and not particular instances for example general character for honesty but not specific instances of such honesty 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (c)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls6\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls6\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 must relate to a period proximate to the date of the charge
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (d)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls6\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls6\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
may even be proved by negative as well as affirmative evidence for example by a witness saying that he has never heard anything against an accused.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par At appeal I did not require State\rquote s counsel to address me further on this issue.
\par 
\par Appellants counsel submitted that the learned trial Magistrate totally ignored and/or failed to take into account or consider the evidence of character.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 I find he was entitled to do so.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The so called characte
r evidence came in by way of cross-examination of the Chairman of the NRSC confirming a memorandum published in the press disassociating his organization against any allegations made against the first appellant and acknowledging the accused\rquote s}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 dedicated and diligent service attributing to him the success in the transformation of the business.
\par 
\par I find that evidence barely qualified as character evidence for the first appellant in his criminal trial and would have had negligible value.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 I find against the first appellant in respect of ground 7.
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Ground 8
\par }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93
That the learned trial Magistrate erred in law and in fact in considering other alleged offences in determining the guilt or otherwise of the appellants\'94.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par This was essentially a submission that the learned Magistrate had used similar fact evidence of unrelated transactions to bolster the prosecution case.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 In support of that proposition counsel referred me to page 145 of the record.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 However, when reading page 145 I note the learned Magistrate is merely summarizing the evidence of PW.1.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 He certainly does not make any finding that he specifically accepts this specific passage of evidence.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Indeed from the summary of the evidence it appears this was an unsupported statement which should have been given little weight in the process of the determination of guilt.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 I do not accept the argument that the learned Magistrate relied on these previous dealings between NRSC and the company \'93
Above Designs\'94 as evidence to support his findings in the instant case and so reject ground of appeal No.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 8.
\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par Ground 9
\par }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \'93
That the verdict is unsafe, dangerous, unsatisfactory and cannot be supported having regards to the evidence as a whole\'94.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par This submission was made to answer the anticipated application for the use of the proviso.
\par 
\par In the course of the appeal counsel for the State conceded that the learned Magistrate had made errors in particular:
\par 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \f3\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \loch\af3\dbch\af0\hich\f3 \'b7\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlblt\ilvl0\ls8\pnrnot0\pnf3\pnstart4\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb \'b7}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls8\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The utilization of otherwise inadmissible evidence against the first appellant.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \f3\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \loch\af3\dbch\af0\hich\f3 \'b7\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlblt\ilvl0\ls8\pnrnot0\pnf3\pnstart4\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb \'b7}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls8\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The indication of a thought process conclusive of guilt in the absence of tes}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947 timony by the second appellant.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \f3\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \loch\af3\dbch\af0\hich\f3 \'b7\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlblt\ilvl0\ls8\pnrnot0\pnf3\pnstart4\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb \'b7}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls8\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
Use of otherwise inadmissible and not independent evidence to corroborate the accomplices allegations.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par However, State\rquote s counsel submitted that there was a wealth of other evidence that tended to incriminate the first and second appellants and accordingly there was no substantial miscarriage of justice.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
It was said in particular PW.1 gave sufficiently strong evidence in combination with the documentary exhibits to convict both of the appellants.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 I disagree.
\par 
\par While PW.1 may have given strong evidence. His credibility was not properly assessed in the light of the attacks mounted upon him by 2 defence witnesses.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 This evidence was not considered by the learned Magistrate.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
The use of the documentary evidence was not discreetly considered by the learned Magistrate and there was no clear identification of a thought process rejecting otherwise inadmissible evidence.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 There was a failure to transparently consider the defence case and the individual cases against each of the appellants.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 For these reasons as I have earlier said the verdict was unsafe and unsatisfactory.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The proviso cannot apply in these circumstances.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
Ground 9 is therefore upheld.
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Conclusion
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Appellants counsel argued that for 3 reasons I should not order a re-trial in this matter.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 They said:}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947\charrsid2765606 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \f3\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \loch\af3\dbch\af0\hich\f3 \'b7\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlblt\ilvl0\ls7\pnrnot0\pnf3\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb \'b7}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls7\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 It would allow the Prosecution to get a \'93second bite of the cherry and improve their case\'94.

\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \f3\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \loch\af3\dbch\af0\hich\f3 \'b7\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlblt\ilvl0\ls7\pnrnot0\pnf3\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb \'b7}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls7\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 It will be against the interest of justice including t
he interest of the accused to have the matter continually hanging over them.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \f3\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 \loch\af3\dbch\af0\hich\f3 \'b7\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlblt\ilvl0\ls7\pnrnot0\pnf3\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb \'b7}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls7\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 There is a risk that evidence of the accomplice would be polished in the intervening period.

\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par I find none of those reasons motivate}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  me to avoid ordering a retrial.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
\par 
\par The appeal is granted.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 I direct that there be a re-trial.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The file is accordingly returned to the Magistrates Court for consideration before an alternate judicial officer.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 The appellants are to remain on existing bail and appear before the Magistrates Court for a call over of their case on }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 
Monday the 20th of September, 2004}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 .}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947\charrsid2765606 
\par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11892947 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 Gerard Winter
\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid2765606 JUDGE
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2765606 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11892947\charrsid11892947 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5076112\charrsid11892947 At Suva
\par 3rd September, 2004 
\par }}