The New Zealand High Commission said Justice Angela Wati's visa application was issued on Thursday after the normal procedures were undertaken.
NZ Deputy High Commissioner, Todd Clever could not elaborate any further on the issue of rejection which was highlighted, only confirming that the visa for Justice Wati and her 22 month old son's visas were granted.
Justice Wati had earlier applied for the visa for her and her son as he needs urgent eye surgery. Our sources confirm that the surgery was booked in NZ for this Tuesday however the visa was rejected. They are now hoping that Justice Wati's son's surgery appointment is confirmed for next Tuesday.
Attorney General, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum had expressed serious concern on Sunday that the NZ Immigration had rejected the visa applications for Justice Wati and her son based on her taking up the judicial appointment.
On Tuesday, NZ High Commission in Suva said that the visa was not denied and the application was still being assessed.
NZ High Commission said there was no suggestion made at the time of enquiries that immediate travel was required to prevent loss of sight of one eye, adding that if such information is available it should be provided to the NZ Immigration Office.
Sayed-Khaiyum again called a press conference and said that the New Zealand High Commission has been economical with the truth with regards to the visa application of Judge Justice Angela Wati and her son.
Sayed-Khaiyum said he is happy that the visa has been granted to Justice Wati and her son who needs urgent eye surgery to prevent permanent loss of sight.
However he said it is still a concern that NZ is still trying to interfere in the affairs of the Fiji judiciary.
