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{\*\generator Microsoft Word 10.0.6764;}{\info{\title IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI}{\author Rahiman}{\operator blake_r}{\creatim\yr2005\mo12\dy1\hr11\min34}{\revtim\yr2005\mo12\dy1\hr11\min34}{\printim\yr2004\mo8\dy23\hr10\min29}{\version2}{\edmins0}
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\f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par At Suva
\par Civil Jurisdiction
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 JUDICIAL REVIEW NO. 0032 OF 2000
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\b\caps\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 The State}{
\b\caps\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922\charrsid1403922 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 v.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922\charrsid1403922 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922\charrsid1403922 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\b\caps\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Native Lands Commission and Anor
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\caps\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Ex-parte}{\caps\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 :}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  }{\b\caps\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Kaiava Morawa}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par Mr. T. Fa for the Applicant
\par Mr. S. Banuve for the Respondents
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 RULING
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par This is a contested application for leave to issue judicial review against a decision of the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Native Lands Commission (NLC)}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  delivered on 20th August 1999 and a decision of the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Native Lands Appeal Tribunal (NLAT)}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  contained in a letter dated 2nd May 2000.
\par 
\par The exact nature of the challenged decisions are succinctly set out in the applicant\rquote s submissions as follows}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 :}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1403922 \b\i\f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \'93
First the decision of the Native Lands Commission appointing Luisa Ratoto Lewatu to the position of Turaga ni Mataqali and Turaga ni Yavusa, Namacuku}{\i0\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 ; }{
\i0\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Secondly the dec
ision of the Native Lands Appeal Tribunal refusing to entertain an appeal by the Applicant as a representative of the majority members of Mataqali and Yavusa Namacuku.\'94}{\i0\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\b0\i0\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922\charrsid1403922 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 In its }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Notice of Opposition}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  the Respondents raise two }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (2)}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  principal grounds:}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922\charrsid1403922 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (1)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 The absence of }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 locus standi}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  in the applicant}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 ; }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687 and}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (2)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}
\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 The absence of an arguable case to justify the grant of leave.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par It is common ground that a dispute had arisen in regard to who was the rightful successor to the headship of the Mataqali Namacuku in the village of Nasolo, Ba.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 The claimants to the title were Ratu Meli Bavatu No. 1 and Luisa Ratoto Lewatu.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 In exercise of its statutory functions the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLC}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  held public hearings in Nasolo Village in April 1998 and later in July 1999.
\par 
\par On 20th August 1999 the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLC}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  determined t
he dispute in favour of Luisa Ratoto Lewatu as the proper head of the Mataqali and Yavusa Namacuku.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
The losing claimant allegedly appealed to the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLAT}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  against the decision}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 but unfortunately he died on 9th September 1999 and the appeal presumably lapsed.
\par 
\par Undeterred, dissatisfied members of the Mataqali (including the applicant) met and resolved to challenge the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLC\rquote s}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  and the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLAT\rquote s}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  decisions.}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 In that regard the applicant was appointed to represent the Tokatoka Navicavaki }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote on all legal proceedings involving}{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687  \'85\'85 our Mataqali and/or Yavusa}{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 .\rquote 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid529687 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 In response to a letter from the applicant\rquote s counsel enquiring after the appeal the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLAT}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  wrote}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 :}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid529687 \b\i\f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \'93
\'85\'85 your appeal on behalf of Kaiava Morawa as a representative of the majority members of Mataqali and Yavusa Namacuku in rela
tion to the appointment of Luisa Ratoto on 22.9.99 by the Commission, has been carefully considered by the Tribunal and regret to advise that they are unable to entertain it.}{\i0\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{
\i0\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 They will only entertain an appeal from the original claimant to the title, Meli Bavatu if he had survived to-date.\'94
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 The judicial review application was eventually lodged on 13th October 2000 some five }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (5)}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  months after }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLAT\rquote s}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
 letter and fourteen }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (14)}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  months after the }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLC\rquote s}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  decision on the title dispute.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 In neither instance can it be said that the applicant and/or his principals had acted with any urgency or promptitude.
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
Having set out the background it is convenient to deal at once with the respondent\rquote s first ground of opposition namely, absence of }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 locus standi}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 :}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Order 53 r.3(5)}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  of the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
High Court Rules}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  provides that}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 :}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid529687 \b\i\f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \'93
The Court shall not grant leave unless it considers that the applicant has a sufficient interest in the matter to which the application relates.\'94
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid529687 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 In this regard, after referring to }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Section 17}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  of the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Native Lands Act}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (Cap.133)}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 , Counsel for the applicant writes}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 :}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid529687 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid529687 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \'93The \lquote dispute\rquote }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  (in the present cases)}{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  is between the Mataqali }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (Tokatoka}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 ?}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 ) }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Navicavaki }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (of which the applicant is the designated representative) }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 and any other claimant.}{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
It is not a dispute between }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (named individuals) }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 and other claimants \endash 
 Therefore when the NLC adjudicated on the two candidates \'85 it was adjudicating on the sponsored Mataqali }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (Tokatoka}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 ?}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 )}{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  Navicavaki candidate Ratu Meli Bavatu No.1 and the other candidate Luisa Ratoto Lewatu.\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid529687 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Respondent\rquote s counsel in his submissions lays emphasis however on the narrow ambit of }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLC\rquote s}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  statutory power to enquire into a native title dispute }{\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 viz}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote \'85.. after hearing evidence and the claimants shall decide who is the proper head\rquote }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 .}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 In this regard counsel writes}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 :}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid529687 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \'93\'85\'85 it is important to bear in mind that there were only 2 disputants }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (claimants)}{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  to the enquiry \'85\'85 Luisa Ratoto Lewatu and Ratu Meli Bavatu No.1.}{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 The relevant decision complained about is that of the }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (NLC) }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 after an enquiry into a title dispute conducted pursuant to S.17 involving these 2 claimants only.\'94

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid529687 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Whilst there can be no doubting the natural }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote interest\rquote }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  and concern of the members of a Mataqali as to who amongst them should be appointed their leader, the question remains, is that, without more, a }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote sufficient interest\rquote }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
 for the purposes of a grant of leave to issue judicial review proceedings in the present case?
\par 
\par With du}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687 e regard to the rather disingenu}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 ous submission of the applicant\rquote 
s counsel, I cannot agree that the applicant has, either personally or in his representative capacity, a }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote sufficient interest\rquote  }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 in the matter to which the application relates.
\par 
\par I am of course not unmindful of the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote proviso\rquote }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  to }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Section 17}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
 which indicates that even after the commencement of an enquiry into a title dispute, the claimants (and arguably their supporters) always have it within their power to amicably resolve the dispute before a final determination is made by the }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLC}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 .
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
Undoubtedly the decision of the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLC}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
 was that of a public body exercising statutory functions and, as such, is plai
nly susceptible to judicial review but was it a decision that had consequences that affected the applicant and/or his principals personally either by altering their rights and obligations or depriving them of some benefit or advantage?
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid529687 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
After careful consideration of the competing submission, the answer I am driven to is a negative one.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
The decision that the applicant seeks to impugn was necessarily and strictly confined to the two }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (2)}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
 competing claimants who were the individuals directly interested and affected by it.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
No part of that decision required the applicant either personally, or in his representative capacity, to do anything nor did it deprive him or any other member of the Mataqali of some existing collective or communal right,}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 benefit, or advantage.
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
Needless to say I remain unimpressed by applicant counsel\rquote s suggestion that a traditional chiefly title can or ought to be subjected to some form of popular electoral process }{
\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 or}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  indeed, that a traditional title holder (as opposed to a parliamentary can
didate), should or must have the support of a majority of}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687  his/her subjects however desir}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 able.
\par 
\par What}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687 '}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 s}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687  }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 more the suggestion that a traditional chiefly title can be the subject-matter of a group }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote sponsored
\rquote }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  claimant (whatever that may mean) whether or not such a group or claimant is personally qualified or entitled}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 to make a claim seems to introduce an alien concept unrelated to either the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote 
letter or spirit of the Native Lands Act\rquote }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  }{\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 or}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  the statutory process provided for the resolution of a title dispute.
\par 
\par As respondent\rquote s counsel observes}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 :}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid529687 \b\i\f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\lquote In Fijian tradition, the title of chief is an individual one and his position is quite separate from the rest of the people, it is not one that anyone can simply aspire to.\rquote 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
Much less, in my view, can it be the subject of a group claim }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 i.e. }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
A claim to a traditional chiefly title being an individual entitlement cannot be transformed or elevated into a group right merely by aggregating a number of entitled individuals.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 In similar vein }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Rooney J.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  observed in }
{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Naimisio Dikau No.1 and 4 Others v. N.L.T.B}{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 . (1986) 32 F.L.R. 179}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  at }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 184C}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 :}{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid529687 
\par }\pard \s18\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid529687 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote 
A mataqali cannot be equated with any institution known and recognised by common law or statute of general application.}{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
The composition, function and management of a mataqali and the regulation of the rights of members in relation to each other \'85\'85 are governed by customary law separate from and independent of the general law administered in this Court.\rquote 
\par }\pard \s18\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid529687 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 I am aware that the first sentence in this dictum was recently deprecated by the Court of Appeal in }{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
Mesulame Narawa v. N.L.T.B}{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 .}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
Civ. App. 12 of 1999}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  where the Court in upholding a representative action commenced by two individual mataqali members said (at }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 p.8}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 )}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 :}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par }\pard \s18\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid529687 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote 
Rooney J. was wrong in holding that a tokatoka or mataqali are institutions alien to and not recognised by the common law.\rquote }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par }\pard \s18\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par The }{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Narawa}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  case however is readily distinguishable, in that the present applicant for judicial review was 
}{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 not}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
 a party or claimant in the underlying title dispute out of which the alleged reviewable error is said to have arisen.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
Indeed the applicant only acquired his representative capacity after the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLC\rquote s }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 decision.
\par 
\par Further the rather unhelpful grounds advanced in support of the application }{\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 viz}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote \'85 contrary to the letter and spirit of the Native Lands Act Cap. 133\rquote }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  and purp
ortedly verified by affidavit evidence does }{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 not}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
 challenge in any material or substantial way either the manner or enquiry process which was undertaken by the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLC }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 in arriving at its decision.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par For instance, there is }{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 no}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  suggestion that an enquiry was not undertaken by the }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLC}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  in arriving at its determination}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 ; }{
\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 or}{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
that relevant evidence was overlooked or ignored by the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLC}{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 ;}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{
\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 or}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  that a claimant to the title was denied a hearing.}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Instead the principal complaint appears to be that the }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLC}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  arrived at the wrong decision in determining the dispute in favour of }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Luisa Ratoto Lewatu}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 .
\par 
\par It is trite that judicial review is primarily concerned with the manner or process by which a decision is made or reached and }{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 not}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  with the merits or the wisdom of the decision.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
Plainly the applicant and his principals disagree with the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLC\rquote s}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
 decision but that in itself, is not enough to raise an arguable case.
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par A further reason for refusing leave in the present case is that the legislature has provided a statutory appeal process against determinations of the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLC }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 and this has not been exhausted in the case of the unsuccessful claimant Ratu Meli Bavatu No.1 albeit that he is now deceased.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }
{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 The primacy of a right to appeal a reviewable decision is reinforced by }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Or.53 r.3(6)}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  which empowers the Court to }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote adjourn the application for leave }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (to issue judicial review)}{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  until the appeal is determined }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (where one has been lodged) }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 or the time for appealing has expired.\rquote 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid529687 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Needless to say the inclusion of a new privative clause [as Section 7(5)] making the (appellate) decisions of the NLAT }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote final and conclusive and cannot be challenged in a court of law\rquote }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
 reinforces not only the specialist function and nature of the statutory bodies created to deal with native land and native title disputes, but also the need for
 the court to exercise a degree of caution where the statutory right of appeal has not been exhausted.
\par 
\par The applicant also complains }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote that the dismissal of the appeal is not founded on law\rquote }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 .}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 This ground is rather inelegantly worded in so far as the correspondence makes plain that the }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLAT}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  was }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote 
unable to entertain it\rquote }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  because the appellant had died.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Quite simply the appeal was neither heard nor dismissed.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par Be that as it may the applicant\rquote s complaint regarding the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLAT\rquote s}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
 handling of the appeal appears to be based on the wording of the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote right of appeal\rquote }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
 granted in terms of }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Section 17(3)}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  of the Native Lands Act as inserted by the }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Native Lands (Amendment) (Appeals Tribunal) Act 1998}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  and which reads}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 :}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid529687 \b\i\f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \'93
A person aggrieved by a decision of the Commission under this Section may appeal against it to the Appeals Tribunal constituted under Section 7.\rquote 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par Applicant counsel\rquote s simple submission is}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 :}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\'93Tokatoka Navicavaki is an \lquote aggrieved party\rquote  and is entitled to do an appeal\'94}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 .}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 I cannot agree.
\par 
\par The statutory right of appeal is }{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 not}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  unlimited or granted }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote in vacuo\rquote }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
, nor in my view, does it extend to a group of people or their representative however aggrieved they may be with the decision.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922  }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 The appeal is necessarily confined to }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote A}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  (}{\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 not}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  \lquote any\rquote )}{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  person\rquote }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  and to \lquote }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
a decision of the Commission under this Section\rquote }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  which, in terms of subsection (1) of section 17, is a decision as to }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote who }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (amongst competing claimants) }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 is the proper head of (a) division or subdivision.\rquote }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid529687 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 As was said by }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Lord Fraser}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  of }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Tullybelton}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  in }{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
IRC v. National Federation of Self-Employed}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (1981) 2 ALL E.R.93 (HL)}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  at }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 p.108d}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1403922 :}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid529687 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid529687 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \lquote The correct approach }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (where there is doubt) }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 \'85\'85
, in my opinion, to look at the Statute under which the duty arises, and to see whether it gives any express or implied right to persons in the position of the applicant to complain of the alleged unlawful act or omission.\rquote 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid529687 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
On that approach it is not difficult to see that the legislature in providing a }{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 new}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
 statutory right of appeal against decisions of the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 NLC}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  in native title or headship disputes under }{
\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 Section 17}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  of the }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
Native Lands Act Cap.133}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922  must have intended to limit the right to the immediate parties to the dispute and/or to the unsuccessful claimant(s) to the title.
\par 
\par For the foregoing reasons leave to issue judicial review proceedings is refused with costs to be taxed if not agreed.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 \f36\fs26\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid529687 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid1403922 (D.V. Fatiaki)
\par }{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid529687 Chief Justice
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1403922 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid529687\charrsid529687 
\par At Suva,
\par 25th August, 2004.
\par }}