A mistrial has been ordered by High Court Judge Justice Daniel Gounder in relation to the November 2000 mutiny retrial of Naitasiri High Chief Ratu Inoke Takiveikata.

Defence counsel Filimoni Vosarogo made a submission in court this morning that one of the three assessors was a former Territorial Force soldier, after which Judge Gounder stood down the case for five minutes to verify the submission.

Judge Gounder after going over the submission announced that a new trial is to commence on Monday with the two remaining assessors to be retained, and the registry will look for another three assessors.

Earlier this week when the trial proper commenced defense and prosecution did not object to the list of assessors that was provided before the three were sworn in.

Judge Gounder also instructed the two lawyers to discuss substantive matters relating to the case, so that there are no further delays.

A fresh trial will now start on Monday.


Story by: Tokasa Rainima