{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\uc1\deff0\stshfdbch0\stshfloch0\stshfhich0\stshfbi0\deflang1033\deflangfe1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fcharset0\fprq2{\*\panose 02020603050405020304}Times New Roman{\*\falt Times New Roman};} {\f183\froman\fcharset238\fprq2 Times New Roman CE{\*\falt Times New Roman};}{\f184\froman\fcharset204\fprq2 Times New Roman Cyr{\*\falt Times New Roman};}{\f186\froman\fcharset161\fprq2 Times New Roman Greek{\*\falt Times New Roman};} {\f187\froman\fcharset162\fprq2 Times New Roman Tur{\*\falt Times New Roman};}{\f188\froman\fcharset177\fprq2 Times New Roman (Hebrew){\*\falt Times New Roman};}{\f189\froman\fcharset178\fprq2 Times New Roman (Arabic){\*\falt Times New Roman};} {\f190\froman\fcharset186\fprq2 Times New Roman Baltic{\*\falt Times New Roman};}{\f191\froman\fcharset163\fprq2 Times New Roman (Vietnamese){\*\falt Times New Roman};}}{\colortbl;\red0\green0\blue0;\red0\green0\blue255;\red0\green255\blue255; \red0\green255\blue0;\red255\green0\blue255;\red255\green0\blue0;\red255\green255\blue0;\red255\green255\blue255;\red0\green0\blue128;\red0\green128\blue128;\red0\green128\blue0;\red128\green0\blue128;\red128\green0\blue0;\red128\green128\blue0; \red128\green128\blue128;\red192\green192\blue192;}{\stylesheet{\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \snext0 \styrsid5663525 Normal;}{\*\cs10 \additive \ssemihidden Default Paragraph Font;}{\*\ts11\tsrowd\trftsWidthB3\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tscellwidthfts0\tsvertalt\tsbrdrt\tsbrdrl\tsbrdrb\tsbrdrr\tsbrdrdgl\tsbrdrdgr\tsbrdrh\tsbrdrv \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1024\langfe1024\cgrid\langnp1024\langfenp1024 \snext11 \ssemihidden Normal Table;}{\s15\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\sl480\slmult1 \widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 \sbasedon0 \snext15 \styrsid5663525 Body Text 2;}{\s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar \tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext16 \styrsid5663525 header;}{\s17\qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext17 \styrsid5663525 Body Text 3;}{\s18\qj \fi374\li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext18 \styrsid5663525 Body Text Indent 2;}{\*\cs19 \additive \sbasedon10 \styrsid5663525 page number;}{\s20\ql \li283\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin283\itap0 \fs16\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext20 \styrsid5663525 Body Text Indent 3;}{\s21\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext21 \styrsid4084310 footer;}}{\*\latentstyles\lsdstimax156\lsdlockeddef0}{\*\rsidtbl \rsid811014\rsid862776\rsid933470\rsid1009808\rsid1275895\rsid1382791\rsid1598413\rsid1972231 \rsid2115326\rsid2193419\rsid2301379\rsid2309175\rsid2371452\rsid2504626\rsid2506087\rsid3176464\rsid3344530\rsid3422714\rsid3636555\rsid3810279\rsid3822112\rsid3831056\rsid4084310\rsid4139962\rsid4160285\rsid4329331\rsid4331392\rsid4594149\rsid4744076 \rsid4815830\rsid4855016\rsid4931203\rsid5052173\rsid5062183\rsid5123780\rsid5592493\rsid5643559\rsid5663525\rsid5663969\rsid5715529\rsid6060947\rsid6160848\rsid6514138\rsid6632754\rsid6782860\rsid6953338\rsid7016967\rsid7223558\rsid7366506\rsid7483118 \rsid7544659\rsid7813669\rsid7824738\rsid7958375\rsid8016262\rsid8083724\rsid8270074\rsid8524331\rsid8598875\rsid8613459\rsid8676526\rsid8790013\rsid8866877\rsid9189166\rsid9452663\rsid9455426\rsid9776131\rsid10034750\rsid10355983\rsid10626461 \rsid10712439\rsid10749241\rsid11014019\rsid11144833\rsid11155160\rsid11292607\rsid11304686\rsid11355540\rsid11404427\rsid11429142\rsid11880640\rsid11928628\rsid12015529\rsid12063525\rsid12072824\rsid12081942\rsid12211158\rsid12218842\rsid12921552 \rsid12931985\rsid12983114\rsid13118036\rsid13198352\rsid13205001\rsid13764623\rsid14043229\rsid14055906\rsid14105686\rsid14108652\rsid14496123\rsid14510136\rsid14695321\rsid14967201\rsid15032169\rsid15086614\rsid15090511\rsid15159555\rsid15297671 \rsid15405516\rsid15541791\rsid15560408\rsid15864576\rsid15945946\rsid16592213\rsid16597937\rsid16671932}{\*\generator Microsoft Word 11.0.5604;}{\info{\title \'93this is a quote, has said, of me saying \'91this is a quote\'92\'94}{\author raikatalau_l} {\operator ruddley_e}{\creatim\yr2011\mo6\dy17\hr9\min13}{\revtim\yr2011\mo6\dy20\hr10}{\version3}{\edmins12}{\nofpages20}{\nofwords8611}{\nofchars49086}{\*\company Pacific Legal Information Institue}{\nofcharsws57582}{\vern24689}} \widowctrl\ftnbj\aenddoc\noxlattoyen\expshrtn\noultrlspc\dntblnsbdb\nospaceforul\hyphcaps0\formshade\horzdoc\dgmargin\dghspace180\dgvspace180\dghorigin1800\dgvorigin1440\dghshow1\dgvshow1 \jexpand\viewkind4\viewscale100\pgbrdrhead\pgbrdrfoot\splytwnine\ftnlytwnine\htmautsp\nolnhtadjtbl\useltbaln\alntblind\lytcalctblwd\lyttblrtgr\lnbrkrule\nobrkwrptbl\snaptogridincell\allowfieldendsel\wrppunct \asianbrkrule\rsidroot5663525\newtblstyruls\nogrowautofit \fet0{\*\ftnsep \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid13205001 \chftnsep \par }}{\*\ftnsepc \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid13205001 \chftnsepc \par }}{\*\aftnsep \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid13205001 \chftnsep \par }}{\*\aftnsepc \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid13205001 \chftnsepc \par }}\sectd \linex0\endnhere\sectlinegrid360\sectdefaultcl\sftnbj {\*\pnseclvl1\pnucrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl2\pnucltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl3\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}} {\*\pnseclvl4\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl5\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl6\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl7\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl8\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl9\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 {\*\bkmkstart Akuila_Yabaki_v_HE_President_AG_2}REV AKUILA YABAKI}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 , }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 VIJAY NAIDU, DOROTHY JANE RICKETTS, {\*\bkmkend Akuila_Yabaki_v_HE_President_AG_2}ADI VUIKABA SPEED, TUPENI BABA, RT KINIJOJI MAIVALILI, RT ISIRELI VUIBAU & DEO NARAYAN v PRESIDENT & ATTORNEY-GENERAL }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 (No. 2)}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 High Cou rt Civil Jurisdiction \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 28 and 29 June and 2 July, 11 July, 2001 \tab \tab \tab HBC 119/01S \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 {\b\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Constitution \endash declarations that the president}{\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s actions in dismissing Mahendra Chaudhary as Prime Minister, dissolving Parliament, failing to summon Parliament,}{\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 appointing L aisenia Qarase as Prime Minister with 17 ministers and 7 assistant ministers as a caretaker government was inconsistent with the 1997 Constitution - 1997 Constitution ss3, 54, 59(2), 68(1), (2) & (3), 90, 96(1) & (2), 98, 99(2), 107, 108,}{ \i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 109(1), & (2), 187(1); Emergency Decree 2000 s1; Emergency Powers Act 1988; Public Safety Act 1920 \par \par Constitution - Interpretation \endash whether mandatory or directory reading - strict interpretation would lead to paralysis \endash doctrine of necessity \endash strict interpretation would render the whole governance of Fiji null and void \endash administrative sensible and practical approach to present serious situation - 1997 Constitution ss60(1), 68(2), 97, 109(2) \par }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The}{ \caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 a}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 pplicants challenge by way of Originating summons the decision of the President to dismiss the Prime Minister, dissolve Parliament and reappoint the Interim Civilian Government in a caretaker capacity instead of summoning Parliament after the decision of }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Republic of Fiji v Chandrika Prasad}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 in the Court of Appeal. On 13 and 14 March 2001 the Great Council of Chiefs acting presumably under the provisions of s90 of the Constitution appointed Ratu J I. Uluivuda as President effectively from 15 March 2001 after consultation with the Prime Minister.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The President continues to serve in the office of the President. One day before, the President, purporting to act under the provisions of s109 (1) of the Constitution dismissed Mr. Mahendra Chaudhry as Prime Minister with immediate effect and}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 purporting to act under the s109(2) of the Constitution appointed Ratu Tevita Momoedonu as Caretaker Prime Minister. On 15 March 2001, acting on the advice of the Caretaker Prime Minister and purporting to act under the provisions of s59(2) of the Constitution, the President dissolved the House of Representatives. On the same day the Caretaker Prime Minister resigned.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The following day, 16 March, the President, purportedly acting under the provisions of s109(2) appointed Mr. Laisenia Qarase as Caretaker Prime Minister, 17 Ministers and 7 Assistant Ministers, which Government continue in office. The }{ \caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 a}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 pplicants sought declarations that the President}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s action was inconsistent with the Constitution and therefore null and void, that the Parliament constituted after the May 1999 General Elections exists and has not been dissolved. The Respondents argued the Constitution was in fact capable of permitting the President to act as was done, alternatively, that deviations from the strict requirements were legitimised under the doctrine of necessity, or that the Court should exercise its discretion not to grant the reliefs sought. In respect of s109, the }{\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 a}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 pplicants argued that since there was no vote of confidence, the President}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s actions in dismissing Mr Chaudhary were null and void. The Respondent argued that in the circumstances prevailing, Parliament could not safely be reconvened, therefore no vote of confidence could actually be held. The Respondent claimed Rt Tevita Momoedonu, being caretaker Prime Minister, had the co nstitutional authority to advise the President to dissolve Parliament. The Court discussed the limited scope of the President}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s powers to act on advice of the Prime Minister pursuant to s96(1) & (2). The Court discussed with s109 was a stand alone provision or to be read in conjunction with ss107 and 108. The Court discussed circumstances in which a President could act to dismiss a Prime Minister. The Court noted that the }{\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 a}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 pplicant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s own affidavit showed Mr Chaudhary had tendered advice to the President for dissolution of Parliament. The Court considered that exceptional circumstances may exist where a caretaker Prime Minister is not a member of the House of Representatives.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In reconciling the various provisions of the Constitution, which on a strict interpr etation would lead to paralysis, the Court read the provisions as directory rather than mandatory. It accepted that application of the doctrine of necessity was required to enable the Constitutional provisions to work, in the climate Fiji was then facing. The Court accepted that the Constitution did not provide complete and realistic answers to the misfortunes caused by an armed insurrection and revolution. The Court determined that the }{ \caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 a}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 pplicants did not apply to cross-examine deponents of the affidavit ev idence presented by the Respondents, so the Court could rely on affidavit about the present serious situation, most of which was unavailable to the Court of Appeal in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Chandrika Prasad}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 . The Court commented on the administrative difficulties which would flow from any decision to invalidate the caretaker government}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s actions, including appointments, gazetted notices and preparation for a forthcoming general election. The Court refused to turn the clock back to May 2000 or to March 2001, citing a sensible and practical approach to the present situation, and avoiding excessive legalism. \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 {\b\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Held\endash }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 (1) Sections 68(1) and 96(1) of the 1997 Constitution, read together require the President to summon Parliament on advice of a Prime Minister.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 No deviation from the requirements of these sections can be justified on the grounds of necessity.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Mr Chaudhary}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s letter of 1 March 2001 amounted to advice to recall Parliament. The President thus acted in a manner inconsistent with the Constitution when he failed to summon Parliamen t after its prorogation on 27 May 2000.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 (2) Section 109 of the 1997 Constitution would not normally come into operation unless the Prime Minister has either failed or has lost a vote of confidence on the floor of the House.}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 But s109(1) does not absolutely prevent a President from dismissing a Prime Minister where no loss of a confidence vote has occurred. There are excep tional circumstances in which a President could find himself validly satisfied and justified in acting in his own deliberate judgement to dismiss. \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Adegbenro v Akintola}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 [1963] AC 614 foll.}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 (3) Mr Chaudhary had tendered advice to the President for dissolution of Parliament, on which the President acted.}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Thus dissolution of the House was not null and void. \par }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 \par }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 (4) Where a literal interpretation of ss97, 99(2) and 109(2) together would lead to paralysis, the provisions of the Constitution must be read as directory rather than mandatory.}{ \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Section 109(2) does not require a caretaker Prime Minister to be a member of the House of Representatives where a government having the confidence of the House, as required by s97 would be impossible to satisfy. \par }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 \par }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 (5) A Court seized with interpretation of a public law, such as a Constitution, is not limited in its purview to the narrow issues placed before it.}{ \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 It must have regard to a much wider context in which the liti gation is taking place. It must determine the present situation with sensibility and pragmatism, and avoid excessive legalism. \par }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 \par }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 (6)}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The doctrine of necessity can justify departure from the strict requirements of the Constitution, where, applying a rule tha t a departure from a strict requirement would render that action null and void, would render the whole governance of Fiji since the hostages were released null and void. The Constitution did not provide complete and realistic answers to the circumstances facing Fiji after armed insurrection. There is no reason in principle why the doctrine of necessity cannot be invoked to support efforts to avert a breakdown of the institutions of government. Accordingly, the President}{ \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s departure from the express procedures for a declaration of state of emergency by resorting to the Public Safety Act, and not the {\*\bkmkstart Emergency_Powers_Act_CCF_v_AG_2}Emergency Powers Act {\*\bkmkend Emergency_Powers_Act_CCF_v_AG_2}was justified by the doctrine of necessity. }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 (7) It would create a legal and administrative nightmare and create a wholly unacceptable risk to the peace and welfare of the nation to turn back the clock to May 2000 or to March 2001. \par \par Obiter dictum \endash the declaration of a state of emergency and its renewal every 14 days under the Emerge ncy Decree, the appointment of the chair of the Great Council of Chiefs, the appointments of the President and Vice-President by the Great Council of Chiefs were inconsistent with the Constitution. \par \par 1st declaration sought granted. All others refused. \par \par [Note: for earlier Ruling on disqualification of trial judge, see }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Citizens Constitutional Forum & Ors v President & Attorney-General (No. 1) }{ \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 in this volume. The }{\caps\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 a}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 pplicants are named personally as Registrar of Charitable Trusts on 21 June 2001 cancelled the incorporation of Citizens Constitutional Forum, the original }{\caps\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 a}{ \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 pplicant. \par This case dist in }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Jokapeci Koroi & Ors v Commissioner of Inland Revenue }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 (2001) HBC179/01L 24 August 2001] \par \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Other cases referred to in Judgment \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Republic of Fiji & A ttorney-General v Chandrika Prasad }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 (No. 2) (2001) ABU 78/00 1 March 2001 \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Clayton v Heffron}{ \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 (1960) 105 CLR 214 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Mitchell v Director of Public Prosecutions}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 [1986) LRC (Const) 35, 88 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Simpson v Attorney-General}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 [1955] NZLR 271 \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Sir Vijay R. Singh for the }{\i\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 a}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 pplicants \par Qoriniasi B. Bale for the First Respondent \par Samuela Matawalu for the Second Respondent \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 {\b\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 11 July, 2001\tab \tab \tab }{\b\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 judgment}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Scott, J \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 These proceedings were commenced by way of Originating Summons issued on 23 Match 2001. \par \par For a variety of reasons directions for the filing of affidavit evidence could not be given until 15 June and the hearing of the summons did not take place until 28 and 29 June and 2 July.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 All parties agreed that it was most desirable that a Judgment be published before 12 July.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Given the relativel y short period of time available between hearing and judgment I propose, taking advantage of the excellent comprehensive and learned written submissions filed by counsel and to a greater extent than usual to summarise the various facts and matters which s eem to me to be especially relevant. \par \par On 19 May 2000 a group of armed men led by one George Speight took over Parliament.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The Prime Minister, Mr. Mahendra Chaudhry and most of his cabinet were taken prisoner.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Later that day the then President Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara declared a State of Emergency. \par \par On 27 May 2000 the Prime Minister still being detained in Parliament Ratu Sir Kamisese appointed Ratu Tevita Momoedonu as Acting Prime Minister under the provisions of {\*\bkmkstart Const_s106_1_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Section 106(1) {\*\bkmkend Const_s106_1_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}of the Constitution (GN 873/00). Almost immediately following the appointment Ratu Sir Kamisese accepted the Acting Prime Minister}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s advice and prorogued Parliament for 6 months under the provisions of {\*\bkmkstart Const_s59_2_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Section 59 (2){\*\bkmkend Const_s59_2_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2} (GN 874/00). \par \par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 On 29 May 2000 the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces purported to abrogate the 1997 Constitution and to appoint himself Head of an Interim Military Government.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Ratu Sir Kamisese "stood down". \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par On 2 June 2000 the Interim Military Government published the Emergency Decree 2000 (Interim Military Government {\*\bkmkstart Interim_D4_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Decree No. 4 {\*\bkmkend Interim_D4_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}- Fiji Government Gaze tte 2 June 00). \par \par On 4 July 2000 the Interim Military Government published the Interim Civilian Government (Establishment) {\*\bkmkstart Interim_D10_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Decree 10/2000{\*\bkmkend Interim_D10_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 This Decree established a civilian government but the Commander of the RFMF retained his position as Head of Government.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Mr. Laisenia Qarase was appointed Prime Minister, Ratu J.Y. Kubuabola was appointed Minister of Finance and Mr. Alipate Qetaki was appointed Attorney General. \par \par On 9 July 2000 the Interim Civilian Government (Establishment) Decree was repealed by the Interim Civilian Government (Transfer of Executive Authority) Decree 2000.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 This Decree provided that the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) should appoint an Interim President to be Head of State. \par \par On 13 and 14 July 2000 a meeting took place of the GCC (GN 187 and 218/00).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The GCC appointed Ratu J. I. Uluivuda (who had been appointed Vice-President under the 1997 Constitution on 18 January 1999 - GN 484/99) as Interim President and the Interim Government was reappointed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 On 13 July the remaining hostages were finally released from Parliament. \par \par On 26 July 2000 George Speight and a number of his associates were arrested and charged with various offences including treason.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 They have been held in custody on Nukulau Island ever since.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The preliminary inquiry in the Magistrates}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Court is, at the time of writing, yet to get under way. \par \par On 5 November 2000 an attempted mutiny took place at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Suva. The Commander of the RFMF narrowly escaped and the mutiny was eventually put down but not before several mutineers and loyalists had been killed. \par \par On 15 November 2000 the Lautoka High Court declared that the purported abrogation of the 1997 Constitution by the Commander of the RFMF on 29 May was null and void and that the Constitution remained in place.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 It also declared that the State of Emergency proclaimed by Ratu Sir Kamisese, though not "strictly" within the terms of the Constitution was validated }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 ab initio }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 under the doctrine of necessity, that Ratu Kamisese remained President and that Parliament should be recalled by him as soon as possible.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Somewhat curiously the Court also declared that members of the House of Representatives holding office retained those offices but that the President was to appoint a Prime Minister under the provisions of {\*\bkmkstart Const_s98_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Section 98 {\*\bkmkend Const_s98_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}of the Constitution.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In view of the fact that the Prime Minister had neither resigned nor been dismissed it is hard to understand what was meant by this last declaration. \par \par On 1 March 2001 the Fiji Court of Appeal dismissed the State}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s appeal against the Lautoka High Court}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s principal finding that the 1997 Constitution remains the supreme law of Fiji and had not been abrogated.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 It also made 2 further declarations: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 (i)\tab that Parliament had not been dissolved but was prorogued on 27 May 20 00; and \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 (ii)\tab that Ratu Sir Kamisese resigned on 15 December 20 00 and that accordingly, under the provisions of {\*\bkmkstart Const_s88_4_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Section 88(4) {\*\bkmkend Const_s88_4_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2} of the Constitution Ratu J.I. Uluivuda as Vice President could continue to perform the functions of President until no later than 15 March 01.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par On 13 and 14 March 2001 the GCC again met (GN 390/01). According to paragraph 7 (h) of the affidavit of Jeremaia Waqanisau filed on 19 June 20 01 the GCC (acting presumably under the provisions of Section 90 of the Constitution) appointed Ratu J I. Uluivuda (hereafter called the President) as President "to take effect from 15 March 2001 after consultation with the Prime Minister".}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The President continues to serve in the office of the President until today (see also GN 417/01). \par \par On 14 March 2001 the President, purporting to act under the provisions of {\*\bkmkstart Const_s109_1_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Section 109{\*\bkmkend Const_s109_1_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2} (1) of the Constitution dismissed Mr. Mahendra Chaudhry as Prime Minister with immediate effect (GN 424/01).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 On the same day the President, purporting to act under the provisions of Section 109(2) of the Constitution appointed Ratu Tevita Momoedonu as Caretaker Prime Minister (GN 416/01). \par \par On 15 March 2001 the President, acting on the advice of the Caretaker Prime Minister and purporting to act under t he provisions of Section 59(2) of the Constitution dissolved the House of Representatives (GN 419/01). On the same day the Caretaker Prime Minister resigned (GN 420/01).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The following day, 16 March 2001, the President, purportedly acting under the provisions of {\*\bkmkstart Const_s109_2_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Section 109(2) {\*\bkmkend Const_s109_2_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}appointed Mr. Laisenia Qarase as Caretaker Prime Minister (GN 421/01). The appointments of 17 Ministers and 7 Assistant Ministers followed (GN 422/01). The Careta ker Prime Minister and Government continue in office until today. \par \par Accordingly to paragraph 11 of Dr. Tupeni Baba}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s affidavit filed on 23 March 20 01 he was "astonished" that the President had failed to summon Parliament after the decision of the Fiji Court of Appeal and had instead dismissed the Prime Minister, dissolved Parliament and reappointed the Interim Civilian Government in a caretaker capacity. \par \par The Originating Summons issued shortly after these actions by the President sought four declarations.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 It also sought an order E }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 staying the purported dissolution of Parliament" and an order F "directed to the President to summon Parliament without further delay". \par \par On 3 April 2001 an amended summons was filed. On 15 June the amended summons was withdrawn. On 28 June the application for orders E and F were also withdrawn.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In the result the Applicants now seek the following four declarations:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 A\tab A declaration that the First Respondent , His Excellency the President of the Republic of the Fiji Islands (hereinafter "the President") acted in a manner inconsistent with the Constitution when he failed to summon Parliament after its prorogation on 27 May 2000. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 B\tab A declaration that the purported dismissal by the President of Hon Mahendra Pal Chaudhry as the Prime Minister of the 14 March 2001 is inconsistent with the constitution and is therefore null and void. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 C\tab A declaration that the purported dissolution of Parli ament by the President on about 14 March 2001 is inconsistent with the provisions of the Constitution and is therefore null and void.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Accordingly the Parliament constituted after the May 1999 General Elections exists and has not been dissolved. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 D\tab A declaration that the purported appointments of H on. Senator Laisenia Qarase as Prime Minister and of other persons as Ministers of a Caretaker Government for Fiji made on or about 15th, 16th and 19th March 2001 are inconsistent with the Constitution and each such appointment is null and void. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par Sir Vijay}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s submissions are contained in two separate written submissions.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The first was filed on 25 June while the second was handed up on 2 July. \par \par In part two of his first written submission Sir Vijay began by stressing that Fiji}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s Constitution enshrines a modified form of Westminster representative parliamentary democracy.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In this model the President does not have the same extensive powers enjoyed by Presidents under different models of which America and France may be offered as examples.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 That does not however mean that the President of Fiji is a mere figurehead but it does mean that his scope for acting otherwise than on the advice of the Prime Minister or another Minister is strictly limited.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 This limitation is codified in {\*\bkmkstart Const_s96_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Section 96 {\*\bkmkend Const_s96_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}of the Constitution which reads as follows:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 "President Acts on Advice}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 96}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 .-(1) Subject to sub-section (2) in the exercise of his or her powers and executive authority, the President acts only on the advice of the Cabinet or a Minister or some other body or authority prescribed by this Constitution for a particular purpose as a body or authority on whose advice the President acts in t hat case. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \s20\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs16\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 {\*\bkmkstart Const_s96_2_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}(2){\*\bkmkend Const_s96_2_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}\tab This Constitution prescribes the circumstances in which the President may act in his or her own judgment." \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par Addressing the first declaration, declaration A, Sir Vijay referred to Exhibits AKS 2 and AKS 1 to the affidavit of Adi Kuini Speed filed on 23 March.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 These exhibits are copies of a letter sent to the President on 1 March 2001 calling upon the President to summon Parliament "as a matter of urgency".}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Attached to the letter was a petition signed by 46 members of the House of Representatives.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 This petition was on its face presented under the provisions of {\*\bkmkstart Const_s68_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Section 68 {\*\bkmkend Const_s68_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}of the Constitution and it is conceded that the President had a discretion under that section either to act upon it or to reject it. \par \par Although submitting that the President, when faced with such a multi-party petition needed powerful reasons not to act on it and did not in fact have them, Sir Vijay relied not so much on the petition as on the covering letter.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 This letter was signed not only by the leaders of four other parliamentary parties but was also signed by Mr. Mahendra Chaudhry, the Prime Minister. \par \par In his final submissions Sir Vijay argued that the letter of 1 March should be taken together with another letter sent by Mr. Chaudhry to the President on 7 March.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 A copy of this letter is Exhibit JMW 11 to Mr. Waqanisau}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s affidavit of 19 June.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Although the letter doe s not specifically call upon the President to recall Parliament it does call for the People}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s Coalition Government (of which Mr. Chaudhry was the head) to be restored to office in an interim capacity prior to dissolution of the House of Representatives following amendment to {\*\bkmkstart Const_s54_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Section 54 {\*\bkmkend Const_s54_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}of the Constitution to allow a reversion to the "First Past the Post" voting system.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Such a change could of course only be made by a recalled Parliament (Constitution 1997 {\*\bkmkstart Const_s190_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Sections 190 {\*\bkmkend Const_s190_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}and {\*\bkmkstart Const_s191_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}191 {\*\bkmkend Const_s191_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}). \par \par Looked at in this way Sir Vijay submitted that the President had unarguably receiv ed an advice from his Prime Minister to recall Parliament for another session, that the advice should have been regarded by the President as being advice tendered under the provisions of {\*\bkmkstart Const_s68_2_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Section 68(2) {\*\bkmkend Const_s68_2_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}, that Section 68(2) by operation of Section 96 required the President to accept the Prime Minister}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s advice and that accordingly by failing to do so the President had acted in a manner that was inconsistent with the Constitution. \par \par Sir Vijay addressed Declarations B and C together and his detailed submissions are set out in paragraphs 74 to 100 of his final written submission. \par \par Central to Sir Vijay argument is the proposition that Sections 107, 108 and 109 of the Constitution have to be considered as an interconnected package of provisions.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Praying in aid Section 3, an interpretation provision, Sir Vijay suggested that Section 109 only comes in to play as a result of the operation of the two preceding sections.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In particular he argued that th e phrase "loses the confidence of the House of Representatives" which occurs in Section 109(1) must be taken to mean "loses a }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 vote of confidence }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 in the House of Representatives".}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Since it is not disputed that Mr. Chaudhry had not lost a vote of confidence in the House neither {\*\bkmkstart Const_s107_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Section 107 {\*\bkmkend Const_s107_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}nor {\*\bkmkstart Const_s108_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Section 108{\*\bkmkend Const_s108_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2} had come into operation and accordingly Section 109 could not be brought in to operation either.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In these circumstances the purported dismissal of Mr. Chaudhry was inconsistent with the Constitution and was therefore null and void. \par \par If Sir Vijay}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s interpretation of Section 109 is correct then it must follow that the appoint ment of a Caretaker Prime Minister was also null and void and that the advice by the Caretaker Prime Minister to dissolve Parliament could not be properly considered to be advice given to the President under the provisions of Section 59(2). \par \par The argument directed to the appointment of Mr. Qarase was very straight forward.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Taking Sections 98, {\*\bkmkstart Const_s99_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}99 {\*\bkmkend Const_s99_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}and 109(2) together it was submitted by Sir Vijay that the "person" referred to in Section 109(2) who may be appointed by the President as a Caretaker Prime Minister must be a member of the House of Representatives.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 While not conceding that Section 109 had properly come into operation Sir Vijay suggested that the dismissal of the Prime Minister, the a ppointment of the first Caretaker Prime Minister and the dissolution of Parliament were all steps in a carefully thought out plan which, while preserving some appearance of constitutionality in fact culminated in the appointment of a Caretaker Prime Minis ter who was not a member of the House of Representatives and whose appointment if only on that ground alone was inconsistent with the Constitution and therefore null and void. \par \par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 At this stage it will be convenient to turn to the answers to these arguments advanced by the Respondents.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Both Mr. Bale and Mr. Matawalu addressed each of the arguments put forward. For the sake of brevity I do not propose to attempt a detailed summary of each of their submissions.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 They are to be found set out in full in their written submissions.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In general both counsel presented a similar case. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par As may be seen from the summaries set out in paragraphs 4A, 4B and 4C of Mr. Bale}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s written submissions the Respondents argued:}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 (i)\tab that the provisions of the Constitution under considera tion were in fact capable of being correctly read in such a way as to permit the President legitimately and constitutionally to do what was done; alternatively, \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 (ii)\tab that such deviations from the strict requirements of the Constitution as may have occurred were legitimised by the doctrine of necessity; or, in the second alternative, \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 (iii)\tab that this Court should, in all the circumstances, exercise its discretion not to grant the reliefs sought. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par In relation to Section 68(3) Counsel of the Respondents argued that the President was justified in the circumstances then prevailing in declining to accede to the request and petition delivered to him on 1 March. \par \par As to Section 68(1) it was submitted that neither the covering letter signed by Mr. Chaudhry nor his later letter of 7 March legally amounted to a request to the President to reconvene Parliament on a date advised by the Prime Minister and that therefore the President had not failed to act on Mr. Chaudhry}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s advice as required by the subsection. \par \par In relation to Section 107, 108 and 109 Counsel for the Respondents point out that the wording of Section 109 enables it to be read as a "stand alone" section making, as it does, no reference to the earlier sections.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 While it appears to be conced ed that the President would ordinarily come to learn that a Prime Minister had lost the confidence of the House by learning that he had lost a vote of confidence on the floor of the House it was argued that nothing in this section prevents the President f rom properly reaching a conclusion on the basis of other evidence that the Prime Minister had in fact lost the confidence of the House. \par \par In support of this proposition Counsel cited }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 {\*\bkmkstart Adegbenro_v_Akintola_Yabaki_v_Pres_AG_2}Adegbenro v Akintola}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 {\*\bkmkend Adegbenro_v_Akintola_Yabaki_v_Pres_AG_2} [1963] AC 614 in which the Privy Council held that the Governor of Western Nigeria was properly able to reach the conclusion that the Prime Minister had lost the support of the majority of the House of Assembly even t hough no actual confidence vote had taken place. \par \par It was argued that it is not necessary under the 1997 Constitution to recall the House of Representatives merely to allow the inevitable defeat of the Prime Minister to take place. \par \par In support of the proposition that Mr. Chaudhry did not, in fact, on 14 March 2001 command enough votes to defeat the motion of no confidence in him which had been tabled six days earlier the Respondent s relied principally on the affidavit of Jeremaia Waqanisau filed on 19 June 01, on paragraph 18 thereof and on Annexures JMW 4 (the Citizens Constitutional Forum calling for the appointment of a new Prime Minister); JMW 7 (Dr.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Baba and Adi Kuini calling for Mr. Chaudhry to be replaced by Dr. Baba); JMW 8 (A di Kuini and others calling for the appointment of Dr. Baba "because he already has the support of the majority of the members of the House of Representatives"); JMW 10 (an opinion by Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi advising the President that if Mr. Chaudhry had no t already resigned then the President would have to dismiss him before appointing an alternative Prime Minister) and also on the affidavit of Ratu Isireli Vuibau filed in support of the Applicants paragraph 9 of which exhibits a copy of the motion of no co nfidence dated 8 March 01 and paragraph 10 of which reads:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 at that time my assessment and that of many others was that a vote of no confidence in Mr. Chaudhry would pass easily". \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par As an alternative to this argument Mr. Bale suggested that in the prevailing circumstances Parliament could not safely be reconvened - and therefore no vote could actually [be] held.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I will return to this submission. \par \par Moving on to Section 59(2) - the dissolution of Parliament on the advice of the first Caretaker Prime Minister - the Respondents}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 case on the interpretation of the section is simply that Ratu Tevita being in fact the Caretaker Prime Minister he had the constitutional authority to advise dissolution.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Accordingly the dissolution was not unconstitutional. \par \par The final section for consideration is Section 109(2) under which Mr. Qarase was re-appointed as Caretaker Prime Minister.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In answer to Sir Vijay}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s submissions Counsel for the Respondent s pointed out that Section 109(2) does not specifically require a Caretaker Prime Minister to be a member of the House of Representatives and that it is one of the comparatively few sections in the Constitution which directly charges the President with acting in his own judgment.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 } {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 It is said that in all the circumstances the President acted quite properly in appointing Mr. Qarase who, although he was not a member of the House (which of course had already being dissolved) was, in the President}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s estimation the person most suitable for appointment to the position. \par \par As will be remembered the Respondents}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 case involves three distinct limbs but if application of the first limb is successful then the second and third need not be resorted to. On the other hand the Applicants}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 argument, at any rate as initially presented involved with the exception of the first declaration just two steps.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 First, Sir Vijay sought to demonstrate that the various acts complained of were in breach of the provisions of the Constitution and secondly he drew from these breaches the conclusion that the acts were therefore null and void.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In the case of the first declaration nullity was not alleged, probably because it was a failure to act which was being impugned. \par \par Following the presentation of Mr. Bale}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s and Mr. Matawalu}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s submissions on 29 June Sir Vijay filed his second written submission which for the first time included reference to the doctrine of necessity raised by the Respondents. \par \par I think the easiest way to deal with these various arguments is first to address Sir Vijay}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s contention that the acts complained of wore inconsistent with the relevant constitutional provisions. \par \par First, the failure the summon Parliament.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In my opinion Sections {\*\bkmkstart Const_s68_1_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}68(1) {\*\bkmkend Const_s68_1_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2} and {\*\bkmkstart Const_s96_1_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}96(1){\*\bkmkend Const_s96_1_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2} of the Constitution taken together require the President to summon Parliament when advised to do so by a Prime Minister.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Whether or not it would be a safe and sensible thing for Parliament to be recalled is a matter which should obviously be considered both by the Prime Minister and the President under the consultation process established by {\*\bkmkstart Const_s104_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Section 104 {\*\bkmkend Const_s104_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}but the final decision has to be that of the Prime Minister.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I am satisfied that no deviation from the requirements of the Sections can be justified on the grounds of necessity since, for the reason already given, the person charged by the Constitution with deciding whether Parliament should or should not be rec alled is the Prime Minister and not the President. \par \par I am satisfied that the March 1 letter from Mr. Chaudhry to the President amounted in effect to an advice to recall Parliament and that the President knew that his Prime Minister wanted Parliament recalled.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The fact that a substantial number of other members of the House also wanted recall is relevant but not decisive to the issue calling for ruling. \par \par I think the importance of upholding and asserting this most fundamental aspect of our representative parl iamentary system of government is such that there can be no reason for not clearly stating it and accordingly I found no ground not to exercise my discretion to grant the first Declaration sought. \par \par As to the second Declaration my view is that Sir Vijay is correct when he links Section 109 to the two preceding sections.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I also agree that Section 109 would not normally come into operation unless the Prime Minister has either failed or has lost a vote of confidence on the floor of the House.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 But I do not agree that Section 109 (1) absolutely prevents a President from dismissing a Prime Minister where in fact no such loss of a confidence vote has occurred. I can, for example, envisage an exceptional sit uation where a Prime Minister who knows perfectly well that he would lose a vote of confidence might advise a lengthy prorogation under Section 59(2) or a long postponement until the next session of Parliament under Section 68(2) in order to buy time to attempt to rebuild his majority.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Since such advice could not be refused it seems to me that the Prime Minister would, on Sir Vijay}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s interpretation of the sections, have a de facto veto over Parliament}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s recall despite the provisions of {\*\bkmkstart Const_s68_3_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Section 68(3) {\*\bkmkend Const_s68_3_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2} which appear to have been designed, in my view unsuccessfully, to prevent the occurrence of such a situation which would obviously be unacceptable. \par \par I am fortified in reaching this conclusion by two further considerations both of which received attention in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Akintola}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 . \par \par The first is that the power conferred on the President to dismiss by Section 109(1) is not stated to be one which he may exercise in his own judgment.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 But a Prime Minister will hardly be likely to advise his own dismissal.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 This curiosity which was considered in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Akintola}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 at pages 632 and 633 led the Privy Council to conclude that the power was obviously one which had to be exercised by the Governor in his own "deliberate judgment".}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In Fiji, too, I hold that these powers are exercisable by the President in his own judgment. \par \par Secondly, I do not find that the wording of our Constitution is so different from the wording of the Constitution of Western Nigeria as to deprive }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Akintola}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 case of persuasiveness.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In these circumstances I hold that there may under our Constitution be exceptional circumstances in which the President could find himself validly satisfied that the Prime Minister had lost the confidence of the House without a vote being held and could therefore find himself justified in proceeding to dismissal.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Whether or not in fact the President had reasonable grounds for proceeding to dismissal in this case I will consider later. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The outcome of Declaration C seems to me to dep end on the outcome to, Declaration B. This is because there is no argument that if Ratu Tevita was a validly appointed Caretaker Prime Minister then he could certainly advise dissolution.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 On the other hand if Mr. Mahendra Chaudhry}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s dismissal was null and void then he remained in office and Ratu Tevita}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s advice was merely opinion.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 It should, however, be noted that Mr. Mahendra Chaudhry was himself apparently in favour of the dissolution of Parliament as soon as this could practicably be achieved.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 On 7 March 2001 Mr. Chaudhry wrote to the President (Exhibit AY 20 to the supporting affidavit of Akuila Yabaki filed on 23 March 01) in the following terms:}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 "there have been calls from some quarters for a fresh general election, so that, after many months of upheaval and uncertainty, the people can deliver fresh mandate for leadership.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Having carefully considered this matter and consulted widely, I support this call. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Accordingly, subject to the matters I set forth below, I am prepared, if required, to advise yo u in terms of Section 59 (2) of the Constitution that the House of Representatives should be dissolved to make way for fresh elections in accordance with our Constitution. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I am also sensitive to the call by several indigenous groups that the current metho d of voting set forth in Section 54 of the Constitution and the Electoral Act should be changed from the current "alternative vote" system to the "first past the post" system of old.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 This will necessitate a change to the Constitution. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 On this matter my p arty would be prepared to accept the guidance of the BLV (the GCC) if in its view those changes ought to be effected prior to the elections.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I am, in those circumstances }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 prepared to delay my advice }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 accordingly to accommodate these amendments." (emphasis added) \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 It is true that Mr. Chaudhry}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s letter went on to call for the reinstatement of the People}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s Coalition Government in a caretaker capacity but the point which is here being made is that the considered opinion of the person who was, on the Applicants}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 case the then legal Prime Minister was that Parliament should be dissolved and fresh elections be held. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Turning to the final declaration, declaration D, the appointment of Mr. Qarase, the Respondents dispute the Applicants}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 suggestion that Section 109(2) requires the person appointed as Caretaker Prime Minister to be a member of the House. While it is not disputed that in normal circumstances an appointee would be a member, the Respondents say that t he section does not, as a matter of fact, include the words "who is a member of the House of Representatives" following the word "person". \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In answer to Sir Vijay}{ \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s suggestion that Section {\*\bkmkstart Const_s99_2_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}99(2) {\*\bkmkend Const_s99_2_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2} requires ministers to be members of the House or the Senate it is said that this section can have no application to Caretaker Ministers who may well be appointed after the House has been dissolved. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In my view Section 3 of the Constitution again tends to favour the case advanced by the Respondents.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 A literal interpretation of the sections under consideration would, in my view lead to paralysis.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 This can be demonstrated by taking Sections {\*\bkmkstart Const_s97_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}97{\*\bkmkend Const_s97_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}, 99(2) and 109(2) together. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In this scenario the Prime Minister loses the confidence of the House and the provisions of Sections 107 and 108 having been exhausted the President dismisses him under Section 109(1) and appoints a Caretaker Prime Minister to advise dissolution under Section 109(2).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 This person, as already pointed out, does not have the confidence of the House since otherwise he would not be advising dissolution.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In the period between dissolution and the recall of Parliament after the general elections a government is obviously required and must be made up of a Caretaker Prime Minister and Caretaker Ministers.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 But Section 97 of the Constitution states that governments }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 must have the confidence of the House of Representatives".}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In the case of a Caretaker Government this requirement is ex hypothesi impossible to satisfy.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In this sort of circumstance the Constitution has somehow to be made to work and it is at this stage of the discussio n that Mr. Bale introduces the proposition that where strict compliance with the provisions of the Constitution would lead to paralysis the relevant sections must be read as directory rather than mandatory (see }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 {\*\bkmkstart Clayton_v_Heffron_v_AG_Akuila}Clayton v Heffron}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 {\*\bkmkend Clayton_v_Heffron_v_AG_Akuila} (1960) 105 CLR 214 and }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 {\*\bkmkstart Simpson_v_AG_v_Rev_Akuila_2}Simpson v Attorney-General}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 [1955] NZLR 271). \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 {\*\bkmkend Simpson_v_AG_v_Rev_Akuila_2} \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Mr. Bale pointed out that in the situation in which Fiji now finds itself were not such an approach to be taken it is doubtful whether the Constitution could, as it were, be "got back on the rails".}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 {\*\bkmkstart Const_s60_1_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}Sections 60(1) {\*\bkmkend Const_s60_1_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}and 68(2) illustrate the dilemma particularly sharply. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 It will be apprec iated from the foregoing that with the exception of Declaration A I am not satisfied that the relevant sections of the Constitution must in every situation be interpreted in the strict manner advocated by the Applicants.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In some unusual or extreme situations a departure from the normal requirements of the Constitution is in my opinion permitted. \par \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 As those of us with even a little general knowledge know under extreme conditions the rules governing normal situations tend to break down.}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 This is the experience of physicians, mathematicians, psychiatrists and sociologists. It is also the experience of lawyers. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In law, as I have already mentioned, this departure is justified under what is known as the doctrine of necessity. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 If disputed, the onus on the party advocating justification is not a light one, as emphasised by the Court of Appeal which in }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 {\*\bkmkstart Republic_v_CPrasad_2_Yabaki_v_Pres_AG_2}Chandrika Prasad}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 {\*\bkmkend Republic_v_CPrasad_2_Yabaki_v_Pres_AG_2}(ABU 78/00) adopted and followed the five conditions set out by Haynes P of the Grenada Court of Appeal in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 {\*\bkmkstart Mitchell_v_DPP_Yabaki_v_Pres_AG_2}Mitchell v Director of Public Prosecutions}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 {\*\bkmkend Mitchell_v_DPP_Yabaki_v_Pres_AG_2}[1986) LRC (Const) 35, 88. \par \par I have added the qualification "if disputed" advisedly. It brings me to an aspect of this case which I consider to be most significant. \par \par As made clear by Sir Vijay and as will be gathered from the specific Declarations sought, the Applicants do not challenge the declaration of the State of Emergency in May 2000 nor its continuation in th e form of the Emergency Decree which has been renewed every 14 days under the provisions of {\*\bkmkstart s1_Emergency_D_Yabaki_v_Pres_AG_2}Section 1{\*\bkmkend s1_Emergency_D_Yabaki_v_Pres_AG_2} of the Decree since its proclamation by the Military Government on 2 June 00. And neither do the Applicants challenge the validity of the process under which the GCC appointed the President.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Yet it is really beyond doubt that both the State of Emergency and the appointment process of the President were inconsistent with the applicable provisions of the Constitution. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 When this was pointed out to Sir Vijay his response was forceful and immediate: the function of the Court, he protested, is only to consider the specific matters placed before it by the Applicants.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 For the Court to look beyond those matters was to confuse law with politics. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 That a Court is only called upon to consider the particular issues placed before it by the parties is undoubtedly usually the case.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Where however the Court is sitting as a public law court or as a constitutional court I do not believe that the same principles apply.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I do not accept that an Applicant in a constitutional case can reasonably or properly tell the Court to limit its purview to the sole matters placed before it.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 While a private litigant is free t o argue whatever narrow case he pleases, once the Court is involved in the interpretation of public law it must have regard to a much wider context in which the litigation is taking place.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 An example of this principle in operation is the requirement that the Court have regard to the interests of good administration when considering granting leave to move for judicial review. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The matters complained of by the Applicants are but four examples of events wh ich have occurred since May 2000 which, if considered in the way suggested by Sir Vijay would plainly be unconstitutional and therefore would, on his argument be null and void. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 This is not merely my own view.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 It was also, at any rate at one time, the view of the Applicants as is plain from the evidence. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 On 18 March 2001 the Citizen Constitutional Forum wrote to the Commonwealth Secretariat (Exhibit AY 3 to Akuila Yabaki}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s first affidavit).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 On page 2 of the letter the CCF advises that it intends to seek an injunction against the Permanent Secretary for Finance to stop payments of public funds to an illegal government.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 It also advises that it is considering actions challenging the appointments of the GCC }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 particularly with reference to the appointment of President and Vice President".}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 This letter was followed by another from the CCF written to the newly appointed Chairman of the GCC, Ratu Epeli Ganilau on 21 March (Exhibit AY 13).}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 On page 2 of the letter we read: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 "This brings us to the issue of your appointment as Chairman of the (GCC), the appointment of some members by the Interim Minister of Fijian Affairs and the appointment of the President and the Vice President. All these are illegal because correct legal procedures have not been followed." \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par As I see it, the declaration of the State of Emergency, the passage of the 2001 Appropriation Decree 2000 (amended, incidentally, only a few days ago by Presidential Proclamation \endash GN 993/01), the appointments to the GCC and the appointment of the President and the Vice President are every bit as significant as the events placed before the Court by the Applicants. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 It seems to me to be perfectly reasonable and proper to ask the Applicants why the principled approach which it is asking this Court to adopt in relation to certain events is not to be adopted in relation to others of equal or even greater significance. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I suggested to Sir Vijay that if I were to accept his approach and rule t hat any departure from the strict requirements of the Constitution was null and void then it would necessarily follow that this Court would be opening the way to rendering null and void the whole governance of Fiji since the hostages were released last ye ar, the date on which according to the Court of Appeal the crisis ended (see }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Chandrika Prasad}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 27).}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I have to say, with respect that I do not think that I received a satisfactory response to this suggestion. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In support of the Respondents claim that such departures from the strict requirements of the Constitution as might be found to have occurred were justified on the grounds of necessity the Respondents filed a substantial body of evidence. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The affidavit of Laisenia Qarase exhibits the address to the nati on by the President immediately following his swearing in on 15 March (Exhibit A). In his address the President explained that in his view the 1997 Constitution did not provide "complete and realistic answers }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 to the misfortunes caused by an armed insurrection and revolution".}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 That this is plainly correct can be demonstrated by the former President}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s need to depart from the procedures unambiguously required by the Constitution for the declaration of a State of Emergency.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 He was unable to take Cabinet}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s advice under {\*\bkmkstart Const_s187_1_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}S187(1) {\*\bkmkend Const_s187_1_Yabaki_v_President_AG_2}since the Cabinet could not meet, he was unable to activate the Emergency Powers Act 1988 which was passed to enable S187 to operate and he was forced to resort to an old colonial Ordinance the Public Safety Act 1920 (Cap 19) which by sheer good fortune had not been repealed. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The President went on to say that "in view of the political disarray and confusion (he) had decided that neither a resumption of the People}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s Coalition Government nor a broader coalition government would be viable". \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 What, briefly, was the evidence to justify this conclusion? \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Mr. Waqanisau in his affidavit sets out the principal co ncerns at paragraph 16. I do not wish to dwell on them in any detail but the concerns included the undisputed disarray and fragmentation of political parties a situation far removed from that before the Court of Appeal which recognised an intact People}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s Coalition Government "ready and willing to assume office" }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Chandrika Prasad}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 page 43 - and a concern that reconvening Parliament and the restoration of the Chaudhry government would lead to a serious threat to law and order. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The affidavit of Asesela Sadole, the Acting Secretary of the GCC exhibits a copy of resolutions passed by the GCC at its meetings on 8, and 13 March 01.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The resolutions include a call for the dissolution of Parliament, the continuation in office of the interim government and new elections (see Exhibit AS 12 and also Exhibit AY 7).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The affidavit of Rev. Laisiasa Ratabacaca, the General Secretary of the Methodist Church in Fiji provides strong support for the way forward mapped by the President in his address to the country. It exhibits letters from 24 Divisions of the Methodist Church supporting the President}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s approach. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The affidavit of Ratu Meli Bainimarama, the Permanent Secretary for Fijian Affairs is in a similar vein.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 At paragraph 12 (h) the Permanent Secretary suggests that there is "strong support for the actions of the President in refusing to reconvene Parliament, in dismissing Mahendra Chaudhry, in dissolving Parliament, in appointing a Caretaker Government and in calling for fresh elections in August 2001".}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 He exhibits letters from all 14 Provincial Councils supporting the President as evidence for his belief. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The affidavit of the Commander of the RFMF Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama concludes with the statement that:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 "the RFMF reaffirms its support and belief that in order to u phold the rule of law, maintain the credibility of the RFMF and ensure national security the nation cannot be allowed to revert to the pre-19 May 2000 status and must be projected forward as directed by the President". \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par The Commander (paragraph 7), Mr. Waqanisau (paragraphs 13N and 20B) and Mr. Qarase (paragraph 17) all referred to intelligence briefings to the National Security Council which suggest that the law and order situation is far from settled. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Paragraph 6 of the affidavit of Ratu Epeli Kanaimawi, the Chairman of a Committee set up by the GCC as early as April 2000 to investigate "the causes of discontent and disunity among Fijians" reads:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 "judging from the strong views expressed at the various meetings which the Committee attended throughout Fiji I am able to say that the appearance of calm which presently prevails in Fiji is due largely to the respect which the indigenous Fijians have for the President and their acceptance of the wisdom in the way forward for the whole nation he has mapped out." \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par In answer to this body of evidence a number of affidavits were filed by the Applicants.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 These include principally an affidavit by Jone Dakuvula and an affidavit by Ratu Meli Vesikula. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Paragraph 26 of Ratu Meli}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s affidavit reads as follows:}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I have noted that in his affidavit, Commodore Bainimarama has expressed concern at the security situation that may arise if the President were to recall Parliament. I disagree with him for two reasons. First, I do not believe that there would have been any disorder, p articularly if the President have properly explained why such a course of action was necessary or desirable. Second, between the military and the Police there should have been a plan of action to deal with any trouble.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The State of Emergency has been continued.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Curfew could be re- introduced. Most of our urban centres have limited access that could have been controlled." \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The thrust of Mr. Dakuvula}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s affidavit (paragraphs 17 et. seq) is that the average Fijian voter does not understand the 1997 Constitution and that their views have been manipulated by their leaders, whether provincial or religious. He reports that while distributing copies of a very useful guide to the Constitution he and his team were warmly welcomed with kindness and generosity wherever they went. His belief is that the threat of violence has been much overstated. At paragraph 49 he states that he believes that:}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 only a very small group of Fijians are opposed to the 1997 Constitution." \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Sir Vijay forcefully advanced the views and reasons for them contained in these affidavits. He also suggested that it was odd that neither of the Commissioner of Police nor Mr. Sitiveni Rabuka, whom he describes as an acknowledged expert on the security situation, had been called by the Respondents. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Now, Mr. Rabuka was not called by the Applicants either, although he does appear in the evidence. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 On 10 March 00 (Exhibit AS 6 to Mr. Sadole}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s affidavit) a letter was sent by Mr. Rabuka who was then the Chairman of the GCC, to Mr. Chaudhry.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 This w as 9 days before Parliament was taken over by the Speight gang.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Attached to the letter was a petition of grievances against the Government and the 1997 Constitution.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 According to Mr. Rabuka}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s letter this petition was signed by no fewer than 13,000 people. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 On 2 July 01, during the course of this hearing, the Fiji Times published an interview with Mr. Rabuka.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 A copy of this was handed up by Mr. Bale without objection. During the interview, when asked about the current security situation Mr. Rabuka answered as follows:}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 we are still not out of the woods.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 There is still potential for disturbance in the normal law and order situation that we are now enjoying.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 We are enjoying it in the shadow of tough military action and until we maintain stability and respect for law and order rather than fear we will not come out of the woods." \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 For once I find myself in agreement with the General. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 As accepted by the Court of Appeal in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Chandrika Prasad}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 it is the}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 current situation which is of primary relevance.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The finding s of a Court will of course reflect the evidence placed before it and most of the evidence placed before this Court was unavailable to the Fiji Court of Appeal. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I do not think that, as claimed by Sir Vijay in paragraph 48 of his final written submission that it was "ordinary times" during and after the decision in }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Chandrika Prasad}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 . \par \par During the entire hearing the Court of Appeal was ringed with heavily armed troops, road blocks were set up and sharp shooters patrolled the roofs of Government Buildings.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 During the hearing of this present case the Court has been cordoned off with a heavy police presence while the Speight case struggles to get off the ground.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I do not think that 13,000 signatures represent a "small group" which Mr. Dakuvula says is all that exists.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I am not prepared to consider that the average Fijian voter is as easily led as is suggested by the Applicants.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I do not believe that their leaders would callously misrepresent the views held by their people.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 No request was made to cross examine any of the Respondents witnesses.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The Applicants seems to be suggesting that the evidence filed by them is false and misleading.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I do not find it to be so. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 It must be remembered that we are dealing here with a very serious situation, a decision which, if the Respondent s are correct could, if wrongly decided lead to a major breakdown of law and order and which could even threaten the unity of the State, something which could hardly have been imagined until advocated by prominent persons in June last year.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 When I put it to Sir Vijay that the Army and Security Services had been split he scornfully accused me of introducing matters which were not in evidence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 He was wrong.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The evidence is contained in the Applicant}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s own case. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 On 25 September 2000 two of the Applicants wrote to the President (Exhibit TLB 1 to Dr. Baba}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s affidavit).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 On page 2, sub paragraph (f) they wrote:}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 "there is a serious split within the ranks of the FMF and the Fiji Police Force". \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 This is wholly consistent with the Commander}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s evidence. It is ironic to say the least, that the Applicants argue, as has been seen in Ratu Meli Vesikula}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s affidavit that law and order can be maintained in Fiji by the firm implementation of an Emergency Decree which, on their own case is plainly unconstitutional. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The final matter which I wish to consider is the suggested administrative difficulties which Mr. Bale argues would flow from any decision to invalidate the Plaintiffs actions. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Mr. Matawalu linked these difficulties to the necessity argument when at paragraph 62 (d) of his written submissions he wrote:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 "it should not be necessary to wait until there is a breakdown of law and order before the necessity doctrine can be invoked.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Th ere is no reason in principle why the doctrine should not support efforts to avert a breakdown of the institutions of government". \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I agree. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The consequences of nullifying the actions of the Caretaker Government appointed in March would, as already sugges ted, include nullifying all actions already taken by them. A little research shows that such actions would include scores of appointments to Commissions, to Trusts, to Boards, to Councils, and would extend to Counter-Inflation Orders relating to food stuf fs and fuel prices and appointments and decisions of Wages Councils.}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 All these can be found by simply perusing the Fiji Government Gazette. \par }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 As anyone who lives in Fiji well knows, and as Mr. Rigamoto}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s affidavit attests, preparations for holding a general election are well under way.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 A date for a general election, 25th August, has already been fixed. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 According to advertisements placed in the newspapers and interviews given on television two at least of the Applicants herein are actively engaged in campai gning for the forthcoming election.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 The decision to hold fresh elections has received widespread support.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 On 20 March 2001 the New Zealand Minister of Foreign Affairs issued a statement welcoming the announcement by the Caretaker Prime Minister that fresh elections would be held (Exhibit 1 to Mr. Qarase}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 s affidavit).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 On 15 May an aid package worth $700,000 to assist with the election was also promised by Mr. Goff (Exhibit I). According to a Commonwealth News Release of 20 March 2000 (Exhibit K) the Commo nwealth "expressed satisfaction that the Caretaker Administration will work towards holding free and fair elections under the 1997 Constitution from 27 August to 7 September as advised by the Interim Prime Minister". \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 On 24 April 2001 Mr. Alexander Downer, the Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs offered $1,000,000 to assist in funding the election.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Writing to Mr. Qarase (Exhibit H) he stated:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 "(there have been indications) that legal challenges might lead to the postponement of elections.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In response I made it clear that Australia would consider this most regrettable and I would ask, as far as it is within your power that you ensure the elections are held at the time proposed." \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 In my view these sentiments accurately reflect the reality of the situation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 As I write this Judgment the President has just expressed the sorrow of the nation for what occurred in May 2000 and in the following months. He has called upon all of us to put these events behind us and to look to a better future.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I do not believe that it would be feasible to turn back the clock to May 2000 or even to March 2001.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I believe that it would, create a legal and administrative nightmare.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I also accept the evidence of the Respondents that it would create a wholly unacceptable risk to the peace and welfare of the nation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I find that such departures from the normal requirements of the Constitution as occurred in relation to Declarations B, C and D, were justified on the grounds of necessity.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I do not accept, as suggested by Sir Vijay that to excuse these actions amounts to giving a charter to terrorists.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Such pessimism is, on my evaluation of the materials before me, unwarranted. \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I do not question the motives of the Applicants which I am sure are sincere but Courts must remember that they are part of society and not above it.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Their Judgments must be sensible and practical and should avoid excessive legalism.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 They would do well to remember the words of William Blake who wrote:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 "the errors of a wise man make your rule rather than the perfections of a fool". \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 I grant the first Declaration in the terms sought.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4084310 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 All other reliefs are refused. \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard \qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 First Declaration granted. Other declarations refused. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \s15\qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 Marie Chan}{ \b\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5663525\charrsid4084310 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4084310 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1972231\charrsid4084310 \par }}