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\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15734259 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259 HIGH COURT OF FIJI}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid15734259 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15734259 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid15734259 CHANDRIKA PRASAD \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15734259 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid1707557 v \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15734259 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16527875 REPUBLIC OF FIJI \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15734259 & ATTORNEY-GENERAL (No. 5) \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259 High Court}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10491880 ,}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259 Civil Jurisdiction \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 Gates, J}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259 20 December, 2000 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3347782 HBC0}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2450975 217}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10491880 .20}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 00L}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid12065662 \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid2314467 Stay o}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid2314467 f execution (2) pending appeal against declaratory orders of Judgment - A-G's loc}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid2314467 u}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid2314467 s standi to pursue appeal on behalf of interim governm}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid2314467 ent discussed -}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid2314467 role of amicus curiae in assisting the court where competing regimes - Court}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid2314467 of Appeal (Cap 12) s20(1)(e), H}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid2314467 igh Court Rules }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3347782\charrsid2314467 O}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid2314467 .15 r}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3347782\charrsid2314467 .}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid2314467 18,}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3347782\charrsid2314467 O}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid2314467 .41 r}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3347782\charrsid2314467 .}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid2314467 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid2314467 1}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid2314467 (8), r. 9(2)}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15734259 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 \par The Attorney General for the interim government sought a stay of the judgment of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259 15 November, 2000 in which decl}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 aratory orders were made. \par \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15734259 Held}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid15734259 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 -}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (1) The court will require the assistance of }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1119666 amicus cur iae }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 where the state is a party and rival governments claim to represent the State. Attorney General of interim government allowed standing for the purposes of the stay application.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (2) Threshold tests on which application for stay will be considered: a su ccessful litigant should not lightly be deprived of the fruits of his litigation. The applicant must show that special circumstances exist as to why a stay should now be imposed, whether state will face economic ruin if stay were not granted, whether the appeal would be rendered nugatory if stay were not granted, whether there is some prospect of success or whether grounds are destined to fail or ob}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3347782 vi}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 ously merely for purposes of delay, balance of justice and convenience.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (3) The court has no jurisdiction t o stay the Constitution, the continuation of which is the essence of the declaratory orders made. The onus on those seeking to prove abrogation must bring cogent proof to court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 Application for stay pending appeal refused.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid12065662 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15734259 Cases referred to in Decision \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 Appl}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid397261 Lynotype-Hell Finance Limit}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid397261 ed v Baker}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid397261 [1992] 4 All ER 887 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 Appl}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid397261 Sewing Machines Rentals v}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid397261 Wilson}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid3347782 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid397261 [1975] 3 All ER 553}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid3347782 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid3347782 App}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 l}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid397261 In Re Ki}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1119666 m}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid397261 Industries Ltd }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid397261 [2000] HBF0036}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10491880 .19}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid397261 97L 7 July 2000}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid3347782 Appl}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid3347782 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid397261 State}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11747829 v H.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid397261 E}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid397261 . The President & Ors ex part}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid397261\charrsid397261 e}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11747829 I}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13115522 .}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11747829 I}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13115522 .}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid397261 A Khan}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14966436 [2000] HBJ00}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3347782\charrsid397261 7}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10491880 .20}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3347782\charrsid397261 0}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14966436 0}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid397261 L}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 Cons}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid397261 Uganda v Commissioner of Priso}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid397261 ns, exp Matovu}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid3347782 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid397261 [1966] E.A. 514}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid3347782 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 Cons}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid397261 Jilani v Government of Punjab}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid397261 [1972] P.L.D. (S.C.) 139}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 Cons}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11747829 Bhutto v Chief of the Arm}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid397261 y Staf}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid397261 f and Anor.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid397261 [1977] PLD S}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6502871 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid397261 C. 1}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid3347782 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 Cons}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 Mitchell & Ors v DPP & Anor }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 [1986] LRC (Const.) 35}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 Cons}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 Makenete v Lekhanya}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 [1993] 3 LRC 13}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid3347782 F}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 oll}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 The Registration Officer of the Suva City Fijian Urban Constituency v }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6060269\charrsid6060269 James Michael Ah Koy}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6060269 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6060269\charrsid6060269 [1994] ABU}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10491880 00}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13060843 23}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10491880 .19}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13060843 93}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 5 January, 1994. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 Cons}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 The}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid6060269 Annot Lyle }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid6060269 (1886) 11 P}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3347782\charrsid6060269 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid6060269 D. 114}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid3347782 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 Cons}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 Monk v Bartra}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1119666 m}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3347782\charrsid6060269 [1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6060269\charrsid6060269 8}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2766894 91}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3347782\charrsid6060269 ] }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3347782\charrsid6060269 1}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9381913 Q}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 B 346 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid3347782 Cons}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid3347782 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid6060269 At}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11747829 torney-}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid6060269 General v Emerson}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 & Ors}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 (1890) 24 QBD 56 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 Cons}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 Winchester Cigarette Machinery Limited v Payne & Anor (No. 2) }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 (1993) TLR 647}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1119666 d}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 ist}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 Atkins v Great Weste}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid6060269 rn Railway Co. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid6060269 (1886) 2 TLR 400}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid3347782 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1119666 d}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 ist}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3347782 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 Barker v Lavery}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 14 QBD 769 (CA) \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid15734259 [Note:}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15734259 ref to in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13792255 Jokapeci Koro}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15734259 i }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid15734259 & Anor. v Asesela Ravuvu & Ors}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15734259\charrsid15734259 [}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15734259 2001] HB}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3347782 C}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15734259 0007}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10491880 .20}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10296881 01}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3347782 L Ruling of 10 January, 2001}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1119666 .]}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15734259 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662 \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid1119666 Anu Patel }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid6060269 for the applicant/}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 respondent \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6060269\charrsid1119666 S}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4871962\charrsid1119666 avenaca }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1119666 Banuve}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid10491880 and }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1119666 Janmai Udit}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6060269 for the respondents \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662 20 December, 2000. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8127608 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1390662 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1390662 DECISION \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid12065662 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1390662 Gates, J}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3347782 .}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1390662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 The Respondents have lodged an appeal against the judgment of this court on the originating summons, that judgment having been delivered on 15 November 2000. The Court of Appeal}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662 will now hear the appeal on 19}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid1390662 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 February 2001 and on succeeding days. The Respondents have filed a summons for stay of execution of the judgment pending the appeal. This was filed with the High Court on 20}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid1390662 th}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid1390662 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 November 2000 and an amended summons was filed the following day 21}{ \fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid1390662 st}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 November 2000}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14514348 .}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 In these proceedings this is the 2}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid1390662 nd}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 such stay application pending appeal, the first was against two interlocutory orders}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14514348 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 The present stay application is against the judgment on the substantive originating motion. For convenience I shall refer to this as stay application No. 2. \par \par The application for stay is now }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662 made pursuant to section 20(1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14514348 )}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14514348\charrsid12065662 (}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 e) of the Court of Appeal Act Cap. 2 [as amended by Section 9 of the Court of Appeal (Amendment) Act 1998], and it is made first to the High C}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662 ourt in accordance with Rule 26}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14514348 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (3) of the Court of Appeal Ru les. Rule 25 dealing with the necessity for obtaining an order of stay has been repealed [see Court of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 Appeal (Amendment) Rules 1999 Legal Notice No. 150 P. 308}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662 ]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 , though by virtue of section 20 of the Act and Rule 34 this does not obviate the need for obtaining an order of stay from either the High Court or the Court of Appeal.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid12065662 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1390662 The Affidavits \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 The Respondents have filed 2 affidavits in support of the}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8127608 ir summons for stay, those of Al}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 ipate Qetaki the current Attorney-General: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1390662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 1. sworn on 18 November 2000, and}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1390662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 2. sworn on 27 November 2000}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 The original applicant filed one affidavit in opposition to the stay, which he deposed to himself, swearing to it on 27 November 2000.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid8414009 None o}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 f these affidavits comply with the High Court Rules, in that they have not been i ndorsed in accordance with Order 41 r. 9(2). That rule states:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1390662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (2) Every affidavit must be indorsed with a note showing on whose behalf it is filed and the dates of swearing and filing, and an affidavit which is not so indorsed }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1390662 may not be filed or used without }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid1390662 the leave of the Court}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662 ." (underl}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 in}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662 ing}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 added) \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 \par I have dealt with this irregularity, a breach of a mandatory provision, in two previous rulings. The }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662 first was a preliminary ruling }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662\charrsid1390662 I}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1390662 n the Matter of Kim Industries Limited}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (unreported) Lautoka High Court Winding Up No. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10491880 HBF0036.19}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662 99L 7 Jul}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 y 2000 Pages 1-4}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1390662 ;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 the second was in }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1390662 The State v. H.E. The }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid8261049 President and 4 Others Ex parte I.I.A. Khan}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (unreported) Lautoka High Court Judicial Review No. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8261049 H}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10496631 BJ}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699 0}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10491880 007.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10496631 20}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 00L 12 October 2000 a ruling on transfer. The issue was fully canvassed in the }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid8261049 Kim Industries}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 case and referred to again in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid8261049 H.E. The President and 4 Others}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 , in which the Attorney-General was a party, and on which the learned Attorney made comments to the P ress concerning the decision. It can be assumed therefore that the Attorney-General had read the decision and had seen my comments on mandatory indorsement. Similarly counsel for the Applicant should have known of the requirement.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8261049\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11747829 Order 41 rule 1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (8) provides:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8261049\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8261049 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 "Every affidavit must be s}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8261049 igned by the deponent and the}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 jurat must be completed and signed by the person before whom it is sworn." \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 From this it is clear that the indorsement requirement of Order 41, rule 9(2) is intended to be something over and above the requirements of Order 41 r. 1}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10496631\charrsid10496631 (8}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid10496631 ),}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 that is something over and above the signature of the deponent, the completion}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 of the jurat,}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 and the signature of the person before whom the affidavit is sworn. That is probably one of the reasons why the indorsement note has come to be placed on the backsheet of the affidavit. However I grant the necessary leave pursuant to Order 41 rule 4 for all 3 affidavits to be used in evidence in these proceedings. \par \par In his first affidavit for the Respondents, Mr. Qetaki exhibits a copy of the Respondents Notice of Appeal filed on 17 November 2000 containing the Appellants' grounds. He deposes as to the initial timetable now set for the appeal}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 in its interlocutory stages. H}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 e says he will pursue the appeal with "all due dispatch". This was somewhat in contrast to his reported comments to the Press, cuttings of which were exhibited in the Applicant's affidavit. The Attorney is reported as saying he considered that the rulings by the Court of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 Appeal would not be delivered until 2003 "so the case really is futile".}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid1652122 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 Various other press clippings with reported comments of the Attorney were also exhibited. These comments were more in the nature of bravado than of contempt, albeit inappropriate in themselves coming from a litigant in a pending}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 matter, and even more so}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 co}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 ming from no less than the Attorn}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 ey-General. However delay would appear no longer to be an issue since a timetable has been set by the Court of Appeal for the expeditious disposal of this appeal.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 Mr. Qetaki further deposes that "the appeal has merits, and there is a real prospect of the appeal being successful. If stay is not granted, the appeals will be rendered nugatory." A similar sentiment that the stay "is absolutely necessary to}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 not render the appeal I f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 iled on 17 November 2000 nugatory" appears in M r. Qetaki's second affidavit. No facts are placed before the Court providing foundation as to why the State's appeal would be rendered nugatory. The court is left to make its own deductions in this regard from the facts it can find. \par \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 Has the present Attorney-General standing to pursue the Appeal? \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 In a preliminary objection }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 Mr. Patel posed two questions:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1652122 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 1. Is Mr}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8414009 .}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 Qetaki deposing on behalf of the peoples of Fiji or is he doing so as Attorney-General in and for the interim administration?}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1652122 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 2. Is the applica tion for stay being made by the interim government, or is it by the State, the Republic of Fiji?}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 Mr. Banuve answered as follows:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1652122 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 1. The Attorney-General is representing and deposing for the interim government which is discharging all the powers of government for this country, deposing for the government in effective control.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1652122 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 2.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 The application for stay is made by the Government of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 the day.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 \par At the originating summons hearing, a line of argument was put forward by the Attorney's counsel which essentially urged the legitimacy and legality of the interim administration. Though the locus standi of the applicant was challenged, no challenge was brought against the standing and appropriateness of the interim Attorney-General in appearing to defend the action f or the State. This raises an interesting argument on standing, which from my reading of the constitutional cases internationally, has not been raised before}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9985515 .}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 It is a question I had posed in another constitutional case but it is not one on which an answer ha s yet been sought or ruled upon. The question amounts to this, who should appear for the State in such a case, the deposed Attorney-General, the usurping Attorney-General, or less partisan representatives (if they are genuinely permitted the freedom to be such) such as the Solicitor-General and members of his chambers, or an outside body such as the Fiji Law Society or the Human Rights Commission}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9985515 .}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 Who is to represent the State when competing rulers vie over political sovereignty? \par \par Wher}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699 e power is usurped in a coup d'\'e9}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 tat, not every public servant will be strong enough to withstand pressures from the usurpers and be able to maintain constitutional and professional independence. The court however is expected to remain aloof from the challenges to government and to rule independently, yet in order to do so judicially, effectively, and thoroughly, it must have th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13193058 e assistance }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 of something more than the arguments of the representatives of one only, or both of, the competing powers. This may be only a concomitant issue to Mr. Patel's preliminary challenge. His argument on the stay application goes further.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 He says the appeal is being pursued not by the litigant, the State, but by one of the competing governments, the interim administration. That government he says, is not a party to the action, and that it has n}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13385323 o locus to pursue the appeal. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 That argument, if carried forward, would suggest that the deposed government in these proceedings similarly could not be heard. Till the appeal is determined there is a vacancy, he says, in the office of the Attorney-General. In these circumstances the case for the State should have been presented by the Solicitor-General acting independently of the Attorney-General for the interim administration.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 What has been the attitude of the courts to representation for the State where there are competing regimes? None of the factual situations in earlier cases quite matches Fiji's present circumstances. In }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 Uganda v. Commissioner of Prisons,}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid1652122 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 ex parte }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 M}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 atovu}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699 [1966] E.A. 514 the new Attorn}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 ey-General appearing with the Solicitor-General was described by Sir Udo Udoma CJ at 527D as vigoro usly maintaining that the 1966 Constitution (as opposed to the 1962 Independence Constitution) was the legally valid Constitution after a successful Revolution. However the new Constitution had been put before, and passed by resolution of, the National As sembly, and though in law a revolution had taken place there had been swift democratic ratification also. The}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 stance adopted by the Attorney-}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 General was not questioned and the court stated at 539f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1652122 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 "We are satisfied and find as a fact that the new Constitu tion has been accepted by the people of Uganda and that it has been firmly establi}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 sh}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 ed throughout the country, the changes introduced therein having been implemented without opposition, as there is not before us any evidence to the contrary."}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6827181 All the affi davits filed on behalf of the State consisted of those sworn to by Permanent Secretaries, Senior Officers of the Police or Armed Forces, the Attorney-General and the Secretary to Cabinet. These deponents were hardly representatives of the ordinary people o f Uganda. Had the Constitution been seriously challenged, the court might have seen a need for less vigorous representatives to appear and to conduct the case for the State in order that the court might decide the issue of whether or not the revolution ha d been successful. In }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid6827181 J}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6827181 ilani v. Government of Punjab}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6827181 [1972] P.L.D. (S.C.) 139 the Supreme Court of Pakistan}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 had the assistance of learned Counsel as }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid9985515 amicus curiae }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 or as friend of the court in addition to Counsel for the Appellants and Counsel for the Attorney-General. At 182 Hamoodur Rahman CJ said:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1652122 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 "The basic concept underlying this unalterable principle of sovereignty is that the entire body politic becomes a tru stee for the discharge of sovereign functions. Since in a complex society every citizen cannot personally participate in the performance of the trust, the body politic appoints State functionaries to discharge these functions on its behalf and for its ben efit, and has the right to remove the functionary so appointed by it if he goes against the law of the legal sovereign, or commits any other breach of trust or fails to discharge}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 his obligations u}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 nder a trust."}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 His Lordship's observations on trusteeship fo r the body politic has parallels for the representation of the State in court by advocates who must act with the neutrality of trustees towards}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 the State's beneficiaries. In }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid1652122 J}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 ilani}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 '}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 s}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 case the a}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12196890 micus curiae}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 tended to argue the case along similar lines to that of Counsel for the Appellants, that is in opposition to the Attorney-General's submission favouring a successful revolution.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 Similarly in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 Bhutto v. Chief of the Army Staff and Anor.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11747829 [1977] PLD SC}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 1; PLD 1977 S C 670 Counsel for the Punjab and the Attorney-General for Pakistan both urged the court to say usurpation of State power had not occurred at the hands of the new ruler, the Chief of the Army Staff, but that any actions he had carried out had been intended to oust the usurper (Bhutto) who had seized power in a massively rigged election. The Attorney-General largely agreed with counsel for the Punjab, though he felt constrained by the arguments he had placed before the cou}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 rt previously in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid1652122 J}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 ilani}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 s}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 case where he had appeared as}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 amicus curiae. He urged the doctrine of necessity and asked the court to accept the Laws (Continuance in Force) Order 1977 as a super-constitutional document now regulating the governance of the country. There was no }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid10491880 amicus curiae}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 to assist the court in this case. Similarly there was none before the Court of}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 Appeal in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 Mitchell & Others v. DPP & Anor.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid7105813 [1986] LRC (Const.) 35 though this case did not concern competing regimes, rather an Act passed by the former revolutionary regime which had subsequently been confirmed and validated by Parliament.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 There was no }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid8915831 amicus curiae }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 either in } {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 Makenete v. Lekhanya}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 [1993] 3 LRC 13. A former Minister of Health had been removed from office by the Chairman of the Military Council. The Deputy Attorney-General argued ther}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10491880 e had been a successful coup d'}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699 \'e9}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 tat. Ackermann JA concluded at 65d:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1652122 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 "But if, applying the correct le gal test for recognition, the court is none the less satisfied that the government in question has discharged the onus of proving all the requisites (in regard to effectiveness, acceptance, duration and so forth) for being recognised as lawful, I cannot s ee how a court can withhold such recognition."}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 It is not clear from the report whether there was still a government in waiting. There is real doubt however over the force and effectiveness of the Appellant's line of challenge brought to bear on Cullman CJ's decision in the High Court.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 This emerges from there being only one ground of appeal namely that the High Court had erred in holdin}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11747829 g that there had been a coup d'\'e9}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 tat. Something more, surely, was required. Indeed the Court of}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 Appeal listened to wider arguments.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 In conclusion, the court will generally require the assistance of }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 amicus curiae}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 where the State is a party and rival governments claim to represent the State. On reflection an }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 amicus}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 would have been appropriate in this case. The Human Rights}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 Commission has already given some assistance to the Applicant in this action and so might not, at least for this matter, be seen as an appropriately neutral friend of the court.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 However it is unlikely to be shut out by a court. But the Fiji Law Society could have been approached to provide less partisan arguments as }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 amicus}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 . I would probably have allowed counsel to appear for the deposed government}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 also, si}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 nce at the time the action was f}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 iled the incarceration of the Cabinet and Government MPs which had occurred some 6 weeks beforehand still persisted, and the interim administration had not yet come into being.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 Whether the interim government is entitled to take this matter on appeal on behalf of the State as opposed to, on behalf of itself the interim administrat ion, is not a matter on which this court can rule in a stay application. Locus arguments}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 and rights of audience could have been entertained at the stage of the hearing of the originating summons. That issue will have to be addressed to the Court of Appeal, and if it were thought that taxpayers}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8915831 ' }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8915831 u}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 nds had not been committed to State business as opposed to political business}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8915831 ,}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8915831\charrsid12065662 that}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 would be a matter for the Auditor-General or for another Suit.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 I decline to deny the interim Attorney-General standing, or deny him direction or control of the appeal on behalf of the State for the purposes of this stay application. \par \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 Principles for Stay \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 It is well known that the litigant once successful should not lightly be deprived of the fruits of his successful litigation: }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid1652122 The Annot Lyle}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (1886) 11 P.D. 1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 14 at 116 CA; }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122\charrsid1652122 Monk v. Bartram}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1652122 [}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 1891] 1 QB 346. The power of the Court to grant a stay is discretionary: The }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 Attorney-General v. Emerson & Others}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (1890) 24 QBD 56}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8915831 ;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 and it is all unfettered discretion }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 Winchester Cigarette Machinery Ltd. v. Payne and Anor.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid8915831 (No.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11747829\charrsid8915831 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid8915831 2)}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (1993) TLR 647 at 648.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid8915831 If a}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 stay was not granted by the Court at the time of making the order now appealed against, the applicant must show that special circumstances exist as to why a stay should now be imposed, and the successful litigant in effect held back}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 from his remedy, }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 Tuck v. Southern Counties Deposit Bank }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (1889) 42 Ch.D. 471 at 478 per Kay J; }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 Atkins v. G}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326 .}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 W. Railway}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (1886) 2 TLR 400; }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 Barker v. Lavery}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (1885)) 14 QBD 769. In the }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid8915831 Winchester Cigarette}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 case (}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid10491880 supra}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 ) at 648 Lord Justice Hobhouse put it "The appellant had to show some special circumstances which took the case out of the ordinary.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 There is no suggestion that as a result of these declaratory orders the State will face economic ruin if the stay were not granted }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 Lynotype-Hell Finance Limited v. Baker}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 [1992] 4 All ER 887 . Nor is this a case where an award of money is to be honoured and paid over by the State which it has no hope of recovering if successful on appeal: }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 Atkins v. Great Western Railway Co.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (1886) 2 TLR 400; }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 Barker v. Lavery}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (1885) 14 QBD 769, CA.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 In the }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid8915831 Winchester Cigarette}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 case (}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid10491880 supra}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 ) at 648 Lord Justice Ralph Gibson said the modern approach to stay was:}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15336326 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 ... a matter of common sense and a balance of advantage.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 But in holding any such balance, full and proper weight had to be given by the court to the starting principle that there had to be a good reason for depriving a plaintiff from obtaining the fruits of a judgment."}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 I shall deal with the grounds of appeal later as also the question of whether the appeal would be rendered nugatory if the stay were not granted.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 Orders to be Stayed \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 The declaratory orders of the court in the judgment were as follows:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15336326 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326 1. The attempted coup of May 19}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid15336326 th}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326 was unsuccessful.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15336326 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 2. The declaration of the State of Emergency by the President Ratu Sir Ka}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699 m}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 isese Mara in the circumstances their facing the nation, though not strictly proclaimed within the terms of the Constitution, is hereby granted validity }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 ab initio}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 under the doctrine of necessity.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15336326 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 3. The revocation of the 1997 Constitution was not made within the doctrine of necessity and such revocation was unconstitutional and of no effect. The 1997 Constitution is the supreme and extant law of Fiji today.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15336326 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 4. The Parliament of Fiji, cons isting of the President, the Senate, and the House of Representatives, is s}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699 till in being. Its incumbents on}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 and prior to 19 May 2000 still hold office, that is Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, who had stepped aside, and who remains President as originally}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 appointed by the Bose Levu Vakaturaga (Great Council of Chiefs); the Senators are still Members of the Senate; the elected Members of Parliament are still Members of the House of Representatives. The status quo is restored. Parliament should be summoned by the Pre sident at his discretion but as soon as practicable. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15336326 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 5. Meanwhile owing to uncertainty over the status of the Government, it will remain for the President to appoint as soon as possible as Prime Minister, the member of the House of Representatives who in the President's opinion can form a government that has the confidence of the House of Representatives pursuant to sections 47 and 98 of the Constitution, and that government shall be the government of Fiji. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 \par It is noteworthy that none of the Respondents' grounds of ap}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326 peal challenge Orders 1 and 2.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326 Grounds of Appeal}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid15336326 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 They are as follows:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15336326 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 1. }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 THAT}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 the learned Judge erred in law in holding that the Respondent had }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid10491880 locus standi}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 to institute proceedings challenging the validity of the Constitution Amendment Act 1997.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15336326 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 2. }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 THAT}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 the learned Judge erred in law in not hearing and disposing the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6826086\charrsid12065662 Appellants}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6826086 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6826086\charrsid12065662 interlocutory}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 application under Order 18 Rule 18 of }{ \fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 HIGH COURT RULES 1988}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 before proceeding to hear the Originating Summons.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15336326 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 3. }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 THAT}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 the learned Judge erred in law and fact in holding that the Constitution Amendment Act 1997 is still the supreme and extant law of Fiji}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15336326 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 4. }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 THAT}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 the learned Judge erred in law and fact that the Parliament of Fiji, consisting of the President, the Senate and the House of Representative is still in being.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15336326 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 5. }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 THAT}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 the learned Judge erred in law and fact in holding that Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara is still the President of Fiji.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2163830\charrsid6826086 Of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2163830 these grounds I}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 doubt if Ground 2 can be argued. But Grounds 1, and Grounds 3, 4 and 5 are all capable of ar}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11747829 gument before an appeal court. I}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 do not consider it necessary to apply strictly the threshold tests, that is, whether there is "some prospect of success" }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 Linotype-Hell}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15942348 supra}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 ) at 888g, or whether the grounds are obviously destined to fail or obviously merely for purposes of delay" }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 Sewing Machines Rentals v. Wilson}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 [1975] 3 All ER 5}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1977795 53 at 555b or whether they are}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 "wholly unmeritorious or wholly unlikely to succeed" (555c). The plain fact is that this case is of such constitutional importance that no impediment should be placed in its upward path to the Appeal Court for hearing and decision. The grounds for the most part would seem to fulfil the threshold tests and for that reason a stay can be considered. \par \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15336326 Can Declaratory Orders be Stayed? \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 The }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326 Hi}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 gh Court Rules deal with declaratory order}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699 s in the following way. Order }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 15 r. 18:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15336326 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 "No action or other proceeding shall be open to objection on the ground that a merely dec}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326 l}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 aratory}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15336326 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 judgment or order is sought thereby, and the Court may make binding declarations of right whether or not any consequential relief is or could be claimed." \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 \par A declaratory judgment is said to be:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid3308999 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3308999 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 "A judgment which conclusively declares the pre-existing rights of the litigants without the appendage of any coercive decree" (see Osb}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4589208 orne's Concise Law Dictionary 6}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid4589208\charrsid4589208 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 Edit.) \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 \par A declaration is not only "a formal statement intended to create, preserve, assert or testify to a right", it is also in this context "the decision of the court or a judge on a question}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 of law or rights." (Osborn}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 e at 112). In spite of indications to the contrary, the court when granting declaratory orders }{ \fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 authoritatively}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 gives its imprimatur for a certain interpretation of an act or document declaring that interpretation to be correct. In doing so the court does not make laws or create rights. By its declar ation the court pronounces upon rights which have already been in existence, some of long standing. (see P.W. Young on Declaratory Orders 2}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid3308999 nd}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 Edit.). On the question of stay the learned author (at para}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 2408) has this to say:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3308999 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 "Because of this, if an appea l is lodged against a declaratory order, conceptually there can be no stay of proceedings. Thus, if it is held that the decision o\'a3 a licensing authority is void and accordingly the licences issued are null and void, there is no procedure whereby the court can validate those licences pending the hearing of an appeal."}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15931802 On declaratory orders 3, 4, and 5 I ruled upon the Constitution. The Constitution had a set procedural path for change. It was common ground that that was not followed. The doctrine of necessity did not apply to the Constitution's}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid15931802 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15931802 amendment (Order 3). It followed that all of the persons that comprised the Parliament of Fiji on or about 19}{ \fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid15931802 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15931802 May 2000, H.E. The President, the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid15931802 Senate }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15931802 and the House of Representatives by virtue of the Constitution were still the lawful membe}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16216737 rs of that Parliament (Order 4).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15931802 The machinery was in tact for the President to appoint from that Parliament the member of the House of Representatives who in His Excellency's opinion could form a government that has the confidence of the House of Representatives, and that government sh all be the government of Fiji (Order 5). These are no more than declarations as to rights and procedures under the Constitution, whic}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3869916\charrsid15931802 h affect the democratic rights}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15931802 of all citizens and inhabitants of Fiji.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 The law having been in existence prior to the actio n and judgment, the court has jurisdiction to make declarations as to the interpretation of that law. The courts are not the Parliament and have no jurisdiction to suspend the operation of Acts of Parliament save in a very narrow jurisdiction which I shal l deal with below. In }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 The Registration Officer for the Suva City Fijian Urban Constituency v. James Michael Ah Koy}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (unreported) Fiji Court of Appea}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 l Civil Appeal No, 23 of 1992 5}{ \fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid3308999 t}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 h}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 January 1994 Sir Moti Tikaram, then Acting President of the Court said at 8: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3308999 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 "Whilst, therefore, it is true that conceptually there can be no stay order against a declaratory order nevertheless every such order should be considered in the light of its own nature and the facts and circumstances surrounding it. Traditionally it has been the invariable practice for the state, public officers and public authorities to take cognizance of declaratory orders and act accordingly without the necessity of any additional coercive orders." \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 In this stay application though, the single judge ha d no hesitation in refusing a stay pending appeal to the Supreme Court after the Court of Appeal had ruled that Mr. Ah Koy was entitled to the 2 declarations he sought. They were, that he was entitled to be registered on the roll of Fijians under section 41(2) of the Constitution and that he was entitled to be registered on the electo}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 ral roll for the Suva City Fiji}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 an Urban Constituency.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 At page 9 of his decision Tikaram, Acting President, said:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3308999 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 "Whilst the pending appeal undoubtedly involves a question of great public importance of a constitutional nature, the fact is that unless and until the Supreme Court overturns the Court of Appeal decision}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16538000 ,}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 that decision must stand and it binds the parties to the Proceeding}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 s}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 ." (my underlining) \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 \par and further on}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3308999 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 "Orderly functioning of democracy depends on the relevant authorities taking cognisance of and giving effect to Court Orders be they executive or declaratory in nature. Unless a case is made out to the contrary (and the onus is on the Applicant to show th at exceptional grounds exist) the successful party must be allowed to enjoy the fruits of his success." \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 \par It is salutary to }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8585532 b}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 ear these principles in mind since they appear to have been forgotten. They derive from the above constitutional case put forward in argument by the Attorney's Counsel. In putting forward such a case on behalf of the Respondents, it is to be deduced that there is an acceptance by the Respondents of the rule of law, over and above mere personal interest.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid12065662 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 P}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid3308999 rinciples of Injunctive Relief \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 The court will try as far as possible to allow the litigant who is running a business and then displaced by another to carry on that business pending the determination of rights. The new claimant must wait outside as it were till the matter is resolved. T he original occupant of longer standing suffers greater loss and disruption than the newcomer: }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 Carroll v. Tornado Ltd.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 [}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699 1971}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 ] RPC 401; }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 Merchant-Adventurers Ltd. v. M. Grew & Co. Ltd.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 [1971]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 3 WLR}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 791 at 801. This approach to}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 injunctive relief was referred to by Megarry J. in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid6825964 Hounslow}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 L.B.C. v. Twickenham G}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 .}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 D. Ltd. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 [1971] 1 Ch. 233 at 268E:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3308999 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 "Now in the present case, the status quo is that for a long while the contractor has been in occupation of the site. This is no case of someone forcibly entering the premises so that (as in }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 Thompson v. Park}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 [1944}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 ]}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699 K.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 B. 408) the status quo to be maintained is that which existed before the forcible entry." \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 \par Since Fiji has a rigid or inflexible Constitution (see judgment P.2}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699 1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 ) such Constitution would have to contain a specific section providing for suspension pending court interpretation. It has no such provision. The court would appear to have no jurisdiction conferred upon it therefore to take such a draconian step, namely to suspend the Supreme law.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 What assistance}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699 is there in the reported cases}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 ? The two Canadian decisions cited by Mr. Banuve, }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 RJR-Macdonald Inc. v. Attorney-General of Canada}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 111}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 DLR (4}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 ) 385 and }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11747829 Horsefi}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 eld v. Registrar of Motor Vehicles}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 118 CCC}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (3d) do not concern the validity of the Constitution. They deal with, in the former, a challenge to tobacco products legislation on the ground that it infringed the Canadian Charter of Righ}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3411005 ts and Freedoms;}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 and in the latter, an administrative process provision in pro vincial legislation for the suspension of a driver's licence when the driver is found to have excessive alcohol in the blood was held inoperative as it was unconstitutional and offended against Section 7 of the Canadian Charter. The unchanging buttress fo r the rule }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 of law in Canada, as it must surely be in Fij}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 i, is the }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid8599163 Constitution.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 Acts and Regulations may be found to be in conflict with the Constitution. Upon appeal the operation of a section of an Act or indeed all of the subsidiary legislation, whether it be the Administrative Drivers Licence Programme, the Traffic Regulations, or the Tobacco Products Control Act may, in appropriate cases, be stayed. In }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 R v. Secretary of Stat}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid3308999 e for Transport}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15942348 ,}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid3308999 ex p. Factortam}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 e Ltd}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 .}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15227699 (No.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699\charrsid15227699 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid15227699 2)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 (Case 213}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15227699 /}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 89) [1991] 1 AC 603 H.L., the court was held to have power to make an order staying the operation of an Act of Parliament, in effect declaring it not to be effective until the outcome of a reference to the European Court of Justice, and to order an interi m injunction. In a proper case a court may have to stay subsidiary legislation or in a rare case, an Act of Parliament. But there is no jurisdiction to stay the Constitution pending a final appellate ruling on interpretation. The validity and existence of t he Constitution is the presumption. The onus is on those who seek to prove the opposite to bring to court cogent proof of the Constitution's abrogation. No assistance can be rendered to usurpers. They must reach the necessary thresholds with their evidenc e and establish their case.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid12065662 \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 Balance of Justice and Convenience \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 If a stay were granted it could be said that the Applicant living at the Girmit Centre Refugee Camp would suffer little loss till the appeal is determined. On the other hand, if a stay were no t granted the State would be disrupted with the changes at the helm of government. Of course, the State has little interest in which government is in power. It is disinterested. It is non-partisan. It}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 represents us all. However the discomfiture of the Stat e should not weigh too heavily for at issue are fundamental rights and the Supreme law of the land, the dislocation of which could not be in the wider interest of the general public for whom the State stands.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 The phrase "nugatory" was used by the Court of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 Appeal in }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid3308999 Wilson v. Church}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 [}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 1879] 12 Ch. D 454. The headnote summarises the position taken by Cotton and Brett LJJs:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3308999 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 "Where an unsuccessful party is exercising an unrestricted right to appeal, it is the duty of the Court in ordinary cases to make such or der for staying proceedings under the judgment appealed from as will prevent the appeal, if successful, from being nugatory. But the Court will not}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 interfere if the appeal appears not to be }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid3308999 bona fide}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 , or there are other sufficient exceptional circumstances."}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12065662 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 I believe this matter is largely one way. The court has no juris diction to stay the Constitution, the continuance of which is the essence of the declaratory orders made. But in applying the principles of stay the balance of advantage lies with the original Applicant and those for whom he stands. Far greater disruption lies with not upholding the rule of law. On the other hand, if the State is to be governed by the interim administration, these ministers can all resume office as soon as the Appeal Court rules in their favour. \par \par They are far fewer in number also than the Parliament they have replaced.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 I decline to stay the declaratory orders and order costs }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11745021 to be paid by the original }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2450975 Resp}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2450975\charrsid12065662 ondents}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid12065662 to the original Applicant in the sum of $500.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid12065662 \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999\charrsid3308999 Application for Stay refused}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3308999 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1707557\charrsid15942348 \par }\pard \qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2763629 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12065662\charrsid16067887 Marie Chan \par }}