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\f35\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par AT SUVA
\par CIVIL JURISDICTION
\par }\pard \s15\qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid2425955 CIVIL ACTION NO. HBC0}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 413 OF 2003
\par }\pard \s15\qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 BETWEEN:
\par }\pard \s15\qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 TIMOCI NACO}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid2425955 

\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 of 8 Nababa Place, of Suva, Fiji, Businessman
\par First Plaintiff
\par }\pard \s15\qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 AND:
\par }\pard \s15\qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 MOSESE MASIREWA}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid2425955 

\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 of 8 Nababa Place, Namadi Heights, Suva, Fiji,}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid2425955  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
Salesman and}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid2425955 
\par }{\b\caps\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 Ana Masirewa}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 of Nauru, School Teacher
\par Second Plaintiffs
\par }\pard \s15\qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 AND:
\par }\pard \s15\qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 COLONIAL MUTUAL LIFE ASSURANCE SOCIETY LIMITED
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 (incorporated in Fiji with its office at 3 Central Street, Suva, Fiji)
\par First Defendant
\par }\pard \s15\qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 AND:
\par }\pard \s15\qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 KRISHNA SAMI GOUNDER}{
\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid2425955 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 (f/n Subhu Gounder) of 27 Namuka
\par Street, Samabula, Suva, Bank Officer
\par Second Defendant}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid2425955 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid2425955 
\par 1st Plaintiff -}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955  In Person
\par 2nd Plaintiff}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid2425955  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 - Non appearance
\par Mr. J. Savou}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid2425955  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 - for 1st Defendant
\par Mr. R.K. Naidu}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid2425955  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 - for 2nd Defendant }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid2425955 
\par 
\par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 EX}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid2425955  }{
\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 TEMPORE JUDGMENT}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid2425955 
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\par }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 Introduction
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par The background of this matter is well known to the Court.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
The first and second plaintiffs have variously taken out five sets of proceedings seeking forms of similar relief based on the one simple set of facts.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par The second plaintiff and his wife Ana Masirewa (hereafter called the \'93in laws\'94) were the registered proprietors of Crown Lease No. 2721.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 The first plaintiff is related to the second plaintiffs by marriage.
\par 
\par The first plaintiff (hereafter called \'93Mr. Naco\'94) convinced the \'93in laws\'94 to put up their property as security for loans advanced to him by the first defendant bank.
\par 
\par Mr. Naco did not repay the loan and it went into default.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 The \'93in laws\'94 were unable or unwilling to pay the loan.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 The bank as mortgagee sought to realise its security by way of mortgagee sale.
\par 
\par The second defendant (hereafter called \'93the purchaser\'94) successfully negotiated for the purchase of CL 2721.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
The bank in exercise of its powers of sale sold the property to the purchaser.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 He was a bona fide purchaser in good faith.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 He now owns and occupies the home.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4938585 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid4938585 Applications before the Court
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par There are four applications before the Court.
\par 
\par The first in time is Mr. Naco\rquote s application to strike out the bank\rquote s defence was filed on the 16th of January 2004.
\par 
\par The second application by the bank dated the 26th of February 2004 is for the action to be struck out.
\par 
\par The third application by the \'93purchaser\'94 applies for the claim to be stayed against his interests.
\par 
\par The fourth application made on the morning of hearing was by Mr. Nagin to withdraw as Counsel for the 1st and 2nd plaintiffs.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 L
eave was granted.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 I asked if there were any applications consequent on that grant of leave.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 None were made.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 There was no appearance by the second plaintiff.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
They have been served.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 They knew of this morning}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4938585 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 s proceedings either by Counsel or their brother-in-law Mr. Naco the first plaintiff who appeared in person.
\par 
\par I will deal with these applications in this order.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4938585 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid4938585 Application No. 1
\par First plaintiff to strike out first defendant\rquote s defence.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4938585 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid4938585 
\par Mr. Naco has applied to dismiss and/or strike out with costs the bank\rquote s defence on the classic grounds that:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s5 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard\plain \s5\ql \li720\ri0\keepn\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel4\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4938585 \b\f35\fs24\ul\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b0\f0\ulnone\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
it discloses no reasonable defence
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s5 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard \s5\ql \li720\ri0\keepn\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel4\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4938585 {\b0\f0\ulnone\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 it is scandalous, frivolous and vexatious
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s5 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (c)\tab}}\pard \s5\ql \li720\ri0\keepn\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel4\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4938585 {\b0\f0\ulnone\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 it may prejudice, embarrass or delay the fair trial of the action

\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s5 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (d)\tab}}\pard \s5\ql \li720\ri0\keepn\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel4\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4938585 {\b0\f0\ulnone\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 is otherwise an abuse of the process of the Court
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s5 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (e)\tab}}\pard \s5\ql \li720\ri0\keepn\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel4\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4938585 {\b0\f0\ulnone\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 there would be an inordinate delay in prosecuting the action.

\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4938585 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid4938585 
\par The notice was supported by an earlier affidavit dated the 10th of November 2003 and supplemented by submissions.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid4938585  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid4938585 
The first plaintiff was unrepresented but he is no stranger to the Court and is a vigorous litigant.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid4938585  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid4938585 
Despite raising and then supporting five classic grounds for the striking out of the defence he primarily rests his argument on one major plank.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid4938585  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid4938585 He submits that the bank should have obtained the consent of the Director of Lands before it embarked on the c
ourse of conducting a mortgagee sale or at least have obtained consent to sell the subject land to the purchaser before the transfer was executed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid4938585  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid4938585 He relies on several decisions which he says support his case.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid4938585  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid4938585 He specifies no supporting detail from these cases but effectively submits that the case precedent is so strong that any defence is unsustainable.
\par 
\par He has wrongly interpreted the cases mentioned in his submission.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid4938585  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid4938585 
He has a confused understanding of the applicable principles governing the need to obtain the consent of the Director of Lands.
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3502827 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 \tab In terms of Section 13 (Crown Lands Act Cap.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3502827\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 
132) while it is unlawful for a lessee to alienate or deal with this type of land without the written consent of the Director of Lands, it is not wrong to enter a contract conditional on that consent.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 
The effect of this section has been settled by numerous judgments of this Court, the Fiji Court of Appeal and the Privy Council.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 I refer to the decision of }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 Waiqele Sawmills Limited v Colonial Mutual Life Assurance Limited}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827  High Court of Fiji Labasa Civil Action No. 0042/1999 a decision of the Chief Justice where at page 4 commenting on similar circumstances he says:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3502827 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 \'93\'85
section 13 of the Crown Lands Act does not render illegal or null and void the making of the indenture between the parties, rather, this section targets \'93(a) dealing effected without (the Director of Lands) consent\'94.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 In other words this was not a case of \'93once illegal, always illegal\'94
 rather it is the case of an initial conditional occupation being retrospectively rendered legal by the subsequent grant of the Director of Lands consent.\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3502827 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 
\par Again at page 5 paragraphs 2 and 3 the learned Chief Justice comments:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3502827 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 \'93
Thus, it may be stated that Section 13 of the Crown Lands Act is confined in its application to a \lquote protected lease\rquote  which bears on its face the statutory formulation: \lquote 
This lease is a protected lease under the provisions of the Crown Lands Act\rquote  [see }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 Damodar Reddy v Ragwa Nand applied in Ganpati v Somasundaram}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827  (1976) 22 F.L.R. 194].}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3502827 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3502827\charrsid3502827 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3502827 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 Furthermore, the execution
 by the parties without more, of an agreement for sale and purchase of a \lquote protected lease\rquote  made subject to the consent of the Director of Lands, is not in and of itself a prohibited \lquote dealing in land\rquote }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 [see }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 Harnam Singh and Anor v Bawa Singh}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827  (1958/59) 6 F.L.R. 31].\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3502827 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 
\par Least I do him any discourtesy whatsoever I should also mention that in his submission Mr. Naco complains that the bank\rquote s bare denials are not proper pleadings and therefore not a reasonable defence and so frivolous and vexatious.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 It may cause embarrassment or delay to the fair trial of the action, he says.
\par 
\par In many cases a bare denial will not be a proper pleading.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 
But in these circumstances this plaintiff has participated in or known about four earlier actions concerning the same set of facts, issues and similar prayers for relief.
\par 
\par I detect in the drafters sparse pleadings and defence a certain terse response to yet another claim by this litigant or his relatives over the same subject matter.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 A more measured response by the bank was called for but not strictly required.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 The plaintiffs well know the matrix of facts at play in these proceedings and the first bank\rquote s position concerning those circumstances.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 If they had any genuine doubt or required further information a \'93request for or further better particulars\'94
 would have been the mo}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3502827 re appropriate course to adopt.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 
\par 
\par At the conclusion of lengthy submissions Mr. Naco was referred back to the five grounds in his application and invited to advance each one.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 He could not.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 He went on further and conceded h
e had no case to argue on each ground.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 In other words he conceded }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3502827\charrsid3502827 his application was groundless.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 
\par 
\par I find this application by the plaintiff completely lacked any merit whatsoever.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 
It was misguided in that even after earlier Judicial consideration this litigant fails to appreciate the basic concepts at play.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 It was misleading in the sense of this litigant being economical with the truth of the entire circumstances surrounding his claim and the other litigation.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 It was unnecessary because steps to require further particulars from the bank were not sought.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 It was frivolous in that none of the grounds advanced could ultimately be supported.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 I dismiss the application with costs that I fix at $650.00.
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s5\ql \li0\ri0\keepn\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\outlinelevel4\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 \b\f35\fs24\ul\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 Second Application: The first defendant to strike out the statement of claim
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3502827 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 
\par In an amended application the bank applies to strike out the action brought against it on the grounds that:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3502827\charrsid3502827 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s5 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard\plain \s5\ql \li720\ri0\keepn\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls2\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\outlinelevel4\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3502827 \b\f35\fs24\ul\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b0\f0\ulnone\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
it discloses no reasonable cause of action against the first defendant
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s5 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard \s5\ql \li720\ri0\keepn\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls2\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\outlinelevel4\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3502827 {\b0\f0\ulnone\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 it is scandalous, frivolous or vexatious
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s5 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (c)\tab}}\pard \s5\ql \li720\ri0\keepn\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls2\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang 
{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\outlinelevel4\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3502827 {\b0\f0\ulnone\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 it is otherwise an abuse of the process of the Court and/or
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s5 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3502827 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (d)\tab}}\pard \s5\ql \li720\ri0\keepn\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls2\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\outlinelevel4\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3502827 {\b0\f0\ulnone\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3502827 it is res judicata.}{\b0\f0\ulnone\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3502827 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 
\par This motion was supported by 2 affidavits and supplemented by full and helpful submissions filed in advance of the hearing.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 The applicant sets out the background to the matter including a brief description of the numerous proceedings against the first defendant brought by the plaintiff.
\par 
\par Its primary argument is that the present proceedings are substantially the same as those contained in 340/2000, 115/2003 and 63/1999.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 It submits that as the plaintiffs have failed to successfully prosecute those claims that this action is an abuse of the Court\rquote s processes.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 It further strongly argues that the plaintiff has misunderstood the law about s.13 and so his claim is baseless.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827 
\par 
\par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 The Respondent}{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3502827 '}{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 s Position
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 
\par The first plaintiff respondent had a limited response.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 He clung to the wreckage of his s.13 argument.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 He blamed his poor argument on the bad advice and action of counsel he instructed.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955\charrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 The one useful thing he did was concede that this litigation duplicates t
he same facts and in some circumstances effectively the same relief }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3502827 as sought in other proceedings.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 
\par 
\par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 The Law
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par The Fiji Court of Appeal in its decision of }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 NATIONAL MBF Finance (Fiji) Limited v Nemani Buli}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955  (CA No.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3502827  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 ABU0057}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3502827 .19}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 98) gives good guidance on the principles for striking out.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
There Lordships said at page 2:
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3502827 \b\i\f35\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 \'93
the law with regard to striking out pleadings is not in dispute.}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
Apart from truly exceptional cases the approach to such application is to assume that the factual basis on which the allegations contained in the pleadings are raised will be proved.}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
If a legal issue can be raised on the facts as pleaded than the Courts will not strike out a pleading and will certainly not do so on a contention that the facts cannot be proved unless the situation is s
o strong that judicial notice can be taken of the falsity of the factual contention\'85\'85\'85\'85\'85.\'94}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par }\pard \s18\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par }{\i0\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 No Reasonable Cause of Action
\par }{\b0\i0\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 
\par }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 It is undisputed that Mr. Naco got a loan on the back of his relatives security.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 It is undisputed that he defaulted in that loan and his relatives were unable to meet their guarantee to the bank.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 It is undisputed that the bank in those circumstances had a right to exercise its powers of sale under the mortgage.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 It is undisputed that the contract for sale of the protected lease was conditional on the Director of Lands approval.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
It is judicially decided and undisputed that the second defendant is a bona fide purchaser for good value and now the registered proprietor of the property acquired under the mortgagee sale.
\par 
\par I must take the pleadings as being capable of proof.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
However even if I do I can see no prospect of success for these plaintiffs.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 I accept the bank\rquote 
s contention that the plaintiffs claim is baseless.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 The contract was conditional on approval (see above).}{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 There is no reasonable cause of action.
\par 
\par }{\i0\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 Abuse of Process
\par }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par In }{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 Reid v New Zealand Trotting Conference}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
 [1984] 1 NZLR 8 at page 9 Richardson J explained the abuse of process principles as follows:
\par 
\par }\pard \s18\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3502827 {\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
Misuse of the judicial process tends to produce unfairness and to undermine confidence in the administration of justice.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
In a number of cases in recent years this Court has had occasion to consider the inherent jurisdiction of the High Court, and on appeal this Court, to take such steps as are considered necessary in a particular case to p
rotect the processes of the court from abuse.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 (See particularly }{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 Moevao v Department of Labour}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 [1980] 1 NZLR 464 and }{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 Taylor v Attorney-General}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955  [1975] 2 NZLR 675).}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 In exercising that jurisdiction the court is protecting its ability to function as a court of law in the future as in the case before it.}{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 The public interest in the due administration of justice necessarily extends to ensuring that the courts\rquote 
 processes are fairly used and that they do not lend themselves to oppression and injustice.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 The justificat
ion for the extreme step of staying a prosecution or striking out a statement of claim is that the court is obliged to do so in order to prevent the abuse of its processes.
\par }\pard \s18\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par The question here is whether it is an abuse of process to bring a succession of proceedings thinly disguised as different but in substantially similar terms when prior proceedings have been struck out or dismissed or are pending?}{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955 
\par 
\par }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 Further is it vexatious and frivolous to bring and sustain multiple pleadings where one will do?
\par 
\par Finally are some of these issues res judicata?
\par 
\par The Courts exist to resolve disputes in a just manner, filing new proceedings and asking the Courts again to resolve a dispute that is already under adjudication or has already been held to be no longer capable of bei
ng decided. (In the absence of very special circumstances) must be an abuse of the processes of the Court.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
Nothing put forward on behalf of the plaintiffs has convinced me in any way that special circumstances exist here.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
In my view allowing such proceedings to continue would not only be unfair to the defendants but would also bring the administration of justice into disrepute.
\par 
\par The rule of law requires the existence of Courts for the determination of disputes and that litigants have a right to use the Court for this purpose.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 Courts must also, however, be alert to their processes being used in a way that results in oppression or injustice that would bring the administration of justice into disrepute.}{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 This is because \'93the Courts Authority \endash  possessed of neither the purse nor the sword \endash 
 ultimately rests on sustained public confidence in its moral sanction.\'94}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 (Justice Felix Frankfurter in }{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 Baker v Carr}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955  369 US 186, 267 (1962) (}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
Savil Contractors & Others v B.N.Z. & Others}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955  CA 108/02 and 12/03 unreported NZCA 23/24 Sept. 2003).}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par 
\par Concerning the issue of whether these proceedings are vexatious and frivolous with respect I adopt the reasoning of the Learned New Zealand High Court Judge Justice Tompkins in the }{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
Bank of New Zealand v Radical Operation Limited & Another}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955  [1990] 5 NZCOC 96-364 at page 225:}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par 
\par }\pard \s18\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3502827 {\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
It is vexatious and an abuse of the process of the court where there are two proceedings that are identical, or sufficiently similar and where the remedies sought in each are equally effective.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 As Jessel MR put it in }{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 McHenry v Lewis}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
 (1882) 22 Ch D 397 at p 400, \'93It is prima facie vexatious to bring two actions where one will do\'94.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 In }{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 Slough Estate Ltd v Slough Borough Council & Anor}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955  [1967] 2 ALL ER 270}{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3502827  Ungoed-Thomas J said at p 276:}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par }\pard \s18\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par }\pard \s18\ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid3502827 {\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 \'94What is required in respect of the proce
dure is not that there should be precise identity but there should be such identity as does not give an advantage of substance to the procedure sought to be stayed over the procedure before the other forum, or as Lord Esher put it (in re }{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 Christiansborg}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955  (1885) 10 PD 141, 148) that the Tribunal should give \endash  and I quote his words \endash  
\lquote the same chance\rquote .\'94
\par }\pard \s18\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par The plaintiffs want the house back.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
The proceedings filed by them to achieve that objective have been sufficiently similar and the remedies requested of equal effect to gain that goal.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 It is a goal that has already been denied them.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
They have not appealed that decision.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 Rather in one form or another they have brought additional proceedings.
\par 
\par Indeed in Civil Action No. 377 of 2000 an almost identical prayer of relief is sought.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
The issue presently before the Court in this file is almost completely identical with the remedy sought in Civil Action No. 155 of 2003.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 A ruling is yet to be delivered on that matter.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
The same facts form the background to CA 273/2003.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 This was struck out.}{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 These proceedings are again of striking similarity to those before Scott J in 63 of 1999.}{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 This action is still alive.
\par 
\par There is nothing to stop any citizen bringing multiple proceedings one after the other.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 That right however is subject to
 the Court\rquote s discretional oversight to ensure its processes are not being abused.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
I find these proceedings vexatious and an abuse of process of the Court.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
Mr. Naco or his in-laws have not pursued appeal on other proceedings that were struck out.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 They have 
instituted a series of similar actions with similar ultimate goals.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
They have not finished prosecuting similar claims in related proceedings yet to be pursued.
\par }{\b0\i0\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 
\par }{\i0\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 Result
\par }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
\par Accordingly I grant the first defendants application.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 I accept the second defendant}{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3502827 '}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 s application to join the first defendant}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3502827 '}{
\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 s proceedings.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
The effect of his application for stay is in effect met by that decision to join the first plaintiff}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3502827 '}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 s application.
\par 
\par I dismiss the first plaintiff\rquote s application.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 Costs against the 1st plaintiff to the f
irst defendant $650.00 and to the second $250.00.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 The reduced award to reflect a \lquote coat-tailing\rquote 
 by the second defendant.
\par 
\par I strike out the first and second plaintiffs writ of summons dated the 6th of October 2003.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 
I permanently stay this proceeding.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955  }{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 I orde
r costs against the first plaintiff in the sum of $650.00 to each defendant and against the second plaintiff the sum of $250.00 to each defendant.}{\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2425955 
\par 
\par }\pard \s18\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3502827 {\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 [ Gerard Winter ]
\par }{\i0\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid2425955 Judge
\par }\pard \s18\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2425955 {\b0\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6310962\charrsid3502827 
\par At Suva
\par 11th March, 2004
\par }}