All leading counsels for the December 5th takeover case, earlier this afternoon released a statement, after a discussion in chambers causing a one and a half hour delay for the case that was scheduled to begin at 11am this morning.

The statement read “leading counsel for the parties as well as the amicus (Dr Shaista Shameem) have been engaging in attempts to clarify and reduce the scope of this very complex case. It went on to add, that the significant progress has been made for which the Court has expressed gratitude."

It is believed that both counsels have not been able to come to an agreement on a list of witnesses and the agreed facts in the case, and have requested time for further consultations. Qarase's senior counsel Tevita Fa when contacted said he was unable to comment as the case was before the courts.

The matter has been adjourned until 10am on Thursday, to allow the process to continue.