Former Airports Fiji Limited CEO Sakiusa Tuisolia has been charged with eight counts of allegedly operating a restaurant business without a license.

It is alleged that Tuisolia was operating his restaurant, Hook and Chook in Victoria Parade Suva without having a proper license, failing to display the license and restaurant regulations in a public place on the premises.

It is also alleged that Tuisolia disobeyed lawful orders from two Health Inspectors who had inspected his restaurant and allegedly informed him that the premises was in breach of certain rules and regulations.

It is also alleged that Tuisolia gave false information to a Public Official.

Tuisolia appeared before Suva Magistrate Mary Muir this morning.

Magistrate Muir questioned under what laws had FICAC laid such charges against Tuisolia and whether it falls in their jurisdiction as normally such matters are dealt with by the Suva City Council.

FICAC Lawyer Aca Rayawa informed the court that FICAC will explain through written submissions that they have the powers to take such matters to court under the authority of the Health Board established under the Ministry of Health.

Tuisolia's lawyer Devinesh Sharma has asked that the plea be deferred until the disclosures are served and he would be in a better position to advise his client.

FICAC also made an application that the case be transferred to the High Court and the case is adjourned to January 19th, 2010.

Tuisolia's bail conditions, which were set out by the High Court in a separate case pending against him is to remain in place.