The New Zealand High Commission Suva said there are some issues that need to be clarified regarding the visa that was granted to Family Court judge Anjala Wati and her 22 month old son for an eye operation overseas.
This is in light of comments made by the Fiji Chief Justice Anthony Gates, who said Wati and family were only given the visa after the matter was highlighted in the media as the visa application was initially rejected.
The High Commission said had the visas been declined on 15th October, as has been suggested, the passports would have been returned, however, the passports for the family remained with the NZ Immigration Office until they were returned with visas for New Zealand attached.
They said New Zealand ministers have consistently granted exemptions where medical, humanitarian, or compassionate grounds have been substantiated, as was the case with Judge Wati.
The High Commission said exemptions have also included serving RFMF personnel and their families.
Issues need clarification–NZ High Comm
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