A new twist has emerged in the former Navy Commander, Francis Keans murder trial.

Kean has terminated the services of his lawyer Abhay Singh and has opted for another prominent lawyer Haroon Ali Shah to be his defense counsel from now onwards.

The trial which was set to start this afternoon couldn’t go ahead as Abhay Singh told the Judge, Justice Gerrard Winter to grant him leave, as his services had been terminated and there was a conflict of instructions.

Justice Winter then told Singh to keep representing Kean until all necessary arrangements are made for Haroon Ali Shah to represent Kean.

Singh then told the court that he is no longer Kean's lawyer and if he continues to represent him, than he might not act fairly on Kean's behalf.

Outside court, Singh confirmed to Village News, that he had different views of the instructions given to him, by his client.

Justice Winter has adjourned the case till 9.30 tomorrow morning where Shah is expected to be present in court.

Kean is charged with the alleged murder of John Whippy outside Suva Yacht club in December last year.