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{\title IN THE SUPREME COURT OF FIJI}{\author Teniau_D}{\operator maltungtung_l}{\creatim\yr2009\mo8\dy4\hr15\min32}{\revtim\yr2009\mo11\dy24\hr15\min1}{\version8}{\edmins153}{\nofpages5}{\nofwords1813}{\nofchars10339}{\*\company USP}{\nofcharsws12128}
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\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 IN THE SUPREME COURT OF FIJI
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 C}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 IVIL }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 J}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 URISDICTION}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 C}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 IVIL ACTION}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  No. 421 of 1986
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 B}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 ETWEEN}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 :
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 TIMOCI BAVADRA
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15292691 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 (representing Tokatoka Werecakaca, Mataqali Elevuka)}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15292691 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15292691\charrsid13990209 Plaintiff
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 AND:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 NATIVE LAND TRUST BOARD
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15292691 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 (a body corporate duly constituted under the Native Land Trust Act Cap.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15864473  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 134)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15292691 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15292691\charrsid13990209 Defendant
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11342264\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 Mr. K.R. Bulewa for the Plaintiff}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 Miss}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 A. Rogan for the Defendant
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209 REASONS FOR THE DECISION
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 The plaintiff in this }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16338236 a}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209 ction applied for an }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 order under Order 15 rule 13 of }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209 the Rules of the Supreme }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 Court that he be given}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\super\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 leave to }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209 institute a representative }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 action against the defendant on }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209 behalf of the Tokatoka }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 Werecakaca, Mataqali Elevuk}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209 a}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13057061  Viseisei V}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209 illage, Vuda. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
On the 30th June, I refused leave and indicated that I would give my reasons as soon as possible thereafter.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209 
\par The }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 action }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209 was commenced by writ of summons }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15474408 on }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5055936 the 15th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209  May. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 In the writ the plaintiff is described as }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209 representing}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  Tokatoka Werecakaca, }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14694051 Mataqali}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  Elevuka. The }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6251158 e}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
ndorsement of claim states that the plaintiff claims}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 damages from the defendant }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 for unauthorised payment of trust funds to the Fiji Development Bank and an order restraining all}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 deductions by the defendant to the}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 Fiji Development Bank of future rental income due to Tokatoka Werecakaca in satisfaction of outstanding debts}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6641552\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 of the defunct }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209 El}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 evuka Co}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209 operative}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  Society Limited}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 .
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 In his affidavit in support of the appli
cation, Dr. Bavadra says that he is a member of the Tokatoka Werecakaca. He says that this is a landowning unit in}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209  the Province }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 of Ba.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 He exhibits a document dated the}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 18th July,}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 1975 signed}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 by}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209 persons }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 claiming}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209  to be members of the t}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 okatoka appointing him }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 to represent us on any dispute about our land and etc.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 

\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209 
\par The }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 affidavit goes on to recite that in}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209  1975 the t}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 okatoka formed a co}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 operative}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 under the Co}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209 -}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209 operative Societies }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 Act, Cap. 50. The co}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209 -}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 operative borrowed money}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 from the Fiji}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 Development}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 Bank}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 fo}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209 r various commercial ventures. O}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 n the 29th March, 1985 the Registrar of Co}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 operatives cancelled the registration of the Society and on the 17th April, 1985}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209  h}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 e appointed a custodian}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209  u}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 nder section 41(4) of the Act to take possession of the books and assets of the co}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209 -}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 operative.
\par 
\par On the 18th October, 1976 the T}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209 okatoka Werecakaca purported to }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
assign irrevocably to the Fiji Development Bank all sums due to the Turaga ni Mataqali and the Lewe ni}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209 Mataqali out of }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 native rents due to the tokatoka. These rents would, in the normal c}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209 ause of events, be collected by }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 the defendant as the trustee of native land. The}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 assignment was to continue in fo}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209 rce as lo}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
ng as ''}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209 m}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 o}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209 n}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 i}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2759163\charrsid13990209 es}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
 (sic) remain owing and unpaid to the Fiji Developme}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1408623\charrsid13990209 n}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 t}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1408623\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 Ban}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1408623\charrsid13990209 k by the T}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 okatoka Werecakaca and shall not be withdrawn without the prior approval of the said Bank}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 .
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1408623\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 On the 16th May, 1985 nine persons claiming to be members of the tokatoka signed a letter to the defendant announcing that at a meeting held on the
 previous day it was decided to revoke the authority granted in 1976. The Court has not been supplied with information as to the total number of persons who are members of the Tokatoka Werecakaca.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1408623\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 The }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1408623\charrsid13990209 Court is }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
not informed as to the name of the person who is the present head of the landowning unit or how the unit is to function in accordance with Fijian custom. Section 17 of the Native Lands Act, Cap. 133, clearly indicates}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\super\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 that each di}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1408623\charrsid13990209 v}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 ision}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1408623\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 or }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1408623\charrsid13990209 subdivision }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 of the people having the customary right to occupy and use native lands has a head.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1408623\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 Order 15 rule 13 applies to proceedings concerning }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209 -}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1408623\charrsid13990209 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 (a) the administration of the estate of a deceased person;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1408623\charrsid13990209 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 (b) property subject to}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1408623\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 a trust; and
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1408623\charrsid13990209 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 (c) the construction of a written instrument, including a statute.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1408623\charrsid13990209 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4534553 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 (a) and (c) above clearly}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1408623\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 do not apply.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
\par While it can be said that the control of all n}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5844530\charrsid13990209 at}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 i}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5844530\charrsid13990209 ve}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  land is vested in the defendant and all such land }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5844530\charrsid13990209 shall be}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  administered by the defendant for the benefit of the Fij}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5844530\charrsid13990209 i}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4534553 an}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  owners under section 4 of the Native Land Trust Act, Cap}
{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5844530\charrsid13990209 . 34, I doubt }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 that the present action concerns property }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5844530\charrsid13990209 subject}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  to a trust within the meaning of rule 13(1). Even}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5844530\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 if}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 it}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 w}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5844530\charrsid13990209 ere }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 t}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5844530\charrsid13990209 o}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  be}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 so}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 regarded,}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 there}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 is}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 nothing}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 in}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 the}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5844530\charrsid13990209  a}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 ffidavi}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5844530\charrsid13990209 t}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 w}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5844530\charrsid13990209 h}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 ich}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 establishes}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 that}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 the}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 conditions}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 set out}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 in }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209 r}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 ule (2}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209 ) }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 have been met. That is to say, there is no }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209 e}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 viden}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209 ce }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 that the members of the Tokatoka Werecakaca cannot be readily ascertained or found or that it is expedient for this Court to make a representative}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 order.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 Individual members of a}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14694051 mataq}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 al}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209 i}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  or other Fijian}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209  l}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 andowning unit have no right to institute proceedings in this Court.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 This was so held in the case of }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid8683025 
Meli Kaliavu}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid8683025  }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid8683025 & Others}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid8683025  }{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid8683025 v.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid8683025  }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid8683025 Native}{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid8683025  }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid8683025 Land}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid8683025  }{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid8683025 Trust}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid8683025  }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid8683025 Board}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6178150  5 FLR}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209 1}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 7.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209 That }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 decision was re}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 affirmed recently in }{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid8683025 Namisio }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid8683025 Dikau v. }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid8683025 N.L.T.B.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  (801}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209 /}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6178150 19}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 84}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209 ,}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  unreported).}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13990209\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 While in this}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 suit the plaintiff}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209  seeks leave to}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  institute a representative action on behalf}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 of the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209 t}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 okatoka, he nowhere claims the support of the majority}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209  o}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 f the members. Twenty}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 four or twenty}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 five people, }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209 i}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 nc}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209 l}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 uding }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209 the Liuliu ni T}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 okatoka signed }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209 the author
ity in }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 favour of }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9988737\charrsid13990209 the plaintiff on the 18th July, }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 1975. Nine persons subscribed to a }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10249331\charrsid13990209 letter dated the 16th May }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 revoking the authority to the defendant to}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10249331\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
pay moneys}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10249331\charrsid13990209  to }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 the Fiji Development Bank and it is this authority upon which the plaintiff }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10249331\charrsid13990209 relies in the present proceedings.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
\par 
\par Even if the plaintiff could show that he had the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10249331\charrsid13990209 suppo}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 rt of the majority of the }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10249331\charrsid13990209 adult members of the landhol}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 ding unit this w}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10249331\charrsid13990209 o}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 uld not necessarily give him or the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10249331\charrsid13990209 
people }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 he represents the right to }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10249331\charrsid13990209 sue. That de}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 pends on }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10249331\charrsid13990209 the n}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 ature of a}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10249331\charrsid13990209  Fijian lan}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 dholding unit.
\par 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16077330\charrsid13990209 As I said in the }{\b\i\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16077330\charrsid8091115 D}{\b\i\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid8091115 ikau
}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid14694051  }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14694051 case (supra) }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14694051 a mataq}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 ali cannot be equated with any institution known and recognised by common law or}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7159287\charrsid13990209  statute of general application. The}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  composition, fu}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14694051 nction and management of a mataq}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 ali and}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7159287\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 the r
egulation of the rights of members in relation to each other and to persons and things outside it are governed by a customary law separate from and independent of the general law administered in this Court}{
\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 .
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10249331\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 I do not regard this as a satisfactory state of affairs.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 The}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7159287\charrsid13990209 I}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 ndigenous}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8091115 law of the}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7159287\charrsid13990209  Fiji}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 an }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7159287\charrsid13990209 people}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 , which is as much a p}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7159287\charrsid13990209 art of their culture as their la}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 nguage}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7159287\charrsid13990209 , ceremonies and unique way of l}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
ife has no }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7159287\charrsid13990209 p}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 roper status}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 in}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7159287\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 the country.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 This is}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 so,}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 notwithstanding
 that most of the land is owned by Fijians under a system of customary title.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7159287\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 Section 5 of the Fiji Independence Order 1970 preserves the existing laws of the Colony of Fiji. Those existing laws were}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7159287\charrsid13990209  defined in }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 section 2(1) of }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7159287\charrsid13990209 the }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 Order as}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14694051 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7159287\charrsid13990209 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
any Acts of the Parliament of the United Kingdom, Orders of Her Majesty in Council, Ordinances, rules, regulations, orders or other instruments having effect as part of the law of Fiji immediately before the appointed day but does not include }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14694051 an Order revoked by this Order.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3801951\charrsid13990209 
\par None}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  of these laws, with the sole exception of }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3801951\charrsid13990209 what}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  appears}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3801951\charrsid13990209  in the Native Lan}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
ds Act, Cap. 133, section 3, are concerned with Fijian laws or customs. Section 3 does little more than give grudging recognition to the manner in which native lands are held by nativ}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3801951\charrsid13990209 
e Fijians and it provides t}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 hat }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
any disputes arising for legal decision in which}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3801951\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 the question of the tenure of the land amongst native}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3801951\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8091115 Fijians is relevant all courts of law shall decide such disputes according to such re}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3801951\charrsid13990209 g}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8091115 ulations o
r native custom and usage which shall be ascertained as a matter of fact by the examination of witnesses capable of throwing light thereupon}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3635011 .}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8091115 
\par 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 The Constitution of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10706077\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
Fiji makes no reference to Fijian custom or usage. Section 15 which affords protection to every person in Fiji against discrimination on the}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10706077\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 grounds of race, place of origin, political opinions, colour or creed contains an exception under 3(d) for }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 the application of customary law with respect to any matter}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10706077\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 in the case of persons who, under that law, are subject to that law}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 .
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10706077\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
The Interpretation Act, Cap. 7, by section 66 deals with the method of ascertaining the membership of proprietary units. These refer to the proprietary units recognised under the provisions of the Native Lands Act.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10706077\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 While it is possible that there are other statutes and regulations which give a measure of recognition to }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7816222\charrsid13990209 F}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 ijian custom, I have found none. The result is that except to a very limited extent the laws and usages of the Fijian people have been effectively suppressed
 and replaced by the received law introduced by the Deed of Cession in 1874 as subsequently modified.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7816222\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 Prior to independence, the system of courts presided over b}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7816222\charrsid13990209 y Fijian magistrates fell into d}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 isu}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7816222\charrsid13990209 se. Although these courts were n}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
ot specifically empowered to apply Fijian custom it is likely that they would have taken it into account in the course of their deliberations. The demise of these courts has further weakened the bonds of custom and contributed to the present situation.

\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7816222\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 The Rotuma Act, Cap. 122, section 3(3) by }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7816222\charrsid13990209 implication gi}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
ves recognition to the customs and circumstances of the islanders. If this provision has the effect of preserving to some extent the laws and customs of the Rotumans then, as things stand, they are trea
ted more favourably in this respect than other natives of Fiji.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7816222\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
The Rotuman Lands Act, Cap. 138, gives explicit recognition to the tenure of land on that island which is in accordance with the law and custom of the Rotumans.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7816222\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 If the plaintiff wishes to pursue this case f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7816222\charrsid13990209 u}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 rther he has to establish, within the framework of the}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7816222\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 common law, that a tokatoka or }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14694051 mataqali}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
 has a right to sue and be sued in the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7816222\charrsid13990209 c}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
ourts. It is, as far as the applied law is concerned, an alien institution, which is neither a corporation nor an unincorporated association. The plaintiff and his associates may be permitted to proceed under Order 15 rule 12 if they can establish }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 a common interest and a common grievance}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209  and if }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
the relief sought is in its nature beneficial to all whom the plaintiff proposes to represent}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7158842 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
. I take the view that the establishment of such a premise}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12389251\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
presents formidable difficulties, unless the plaintiff can show that the constitution, management and function of the Tokatoka Werecakaca}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 are such that}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 it meets that}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11038367\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12389251\charrsid13990209 requirement.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12389251\charrsid13990209 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 Originally the Fijian landowning units used the land exclusively for agriculture to sustain their members. In such a situation t}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid409370\charrsid13990209 hey had no need of the law to }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 protect their interests. Territorial disputes would be determined and settled by tho
se in authority by processes understood and accepted by Fijian tradition. The change came}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid409370\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659\charrsid13990209 
when Fijian land became available for lease. To control this process the Native Land Trust Board was established by the legislature in 1940. The Board was granted absolute control over native lands. The Board was}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid409370\charrsid13990209  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5261956 given the right to distribute the}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7019879 
 rents and premiums received in respect of leases or licences of native lands and was entitled to deduct expenses of up to 25% of the money}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15604932 s}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7019879 
 collected from the holders of leases and licences. In the early days such revenues were un}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2246290 likely to be large.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9650659 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2246290 
\par Times have changed. Modern developments have transformed some mataqali into major landlords commanding revenues much greater than those contemplated at the time that the Native Land Trust Board was established.
\par 
\par It is inevitable that disputes may arise between different interest}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15604932 s}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2246290 
 as a result of these developments. Some mataqali may have genuine differences with the Board as the controlling authority and with third parties with whom th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15604932 ey come into conflict. No way}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2246290  has yet been devised by which such disputes can be resolved by recourse to the courts}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11143424 , unless procedural difficulties are overcome.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2246290 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11143424 
\par It is the function of judiciary to apply the existing law. The courts may be able by judicious interpretation of existing law to create new remedies. But the judiciary
 has no power to establish new institutions or to fill in gaps left by legislation which is no longer suitable in new conditions. It is for the legislature to address itself to these problems.
\par 
\par I must apply the law as I find it and leave it to others to re
pair such deficiencies as may appear in the course of cases such as this. I can only express the hope that the authorities will see the necessity of rescuing from oblivion the laws, customs and usages of the Fijian people and grant to Fijian landowners th
e right of access to the courts which is enjoyed by the owners of land held under freehold and leasehold.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7618868 {\b\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11143424\charrsid16318711 (F. X. Roon}{
\b\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid284204\charrsid16318711 e}{\b\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11143424\charrsid16318711 y)
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11143424\charrsid7618868 JUDGE}{\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11143424\charrsid7618868 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10620850 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid409370 
\par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7618868 Suva}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid869366 ,}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7618868 
\par 11th July, 1986}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7618868\charrsid7618868 
\par }}