An application by a former politician who applied for the lifting of an order for disqualification from driving was today refused by the Suva high court.

Benjamin Padarath on the 23rd August, 2006 pleaded guilty to 2 counts of aggravated dangerous driving causing death. He was sentenced on the 25th August 2006 to 2 years imprisonment and disqualified from driving for 3 years. He was also fined $2,000.

High court judge, Justice Nashat Shameem refused the application saying it is her duty to consider the interests of the public and the community in making this decision.

Judge Shammeem ruled that the seriousness of the original offence and the subsequent act of driving whilst disqualified has persuaded her that it is not in the public interest to restore the applicant's licence.