The defamation case brought by former Suva Mayor Chandu Umaria against the current Mayor Ratu Peni Volavola and the Daily Post got underway in the High court this morning.

In court today, recordings of a radio talkback show in 2004 was put in as evidence where Ratu Peni is alleged to be saying that the deteriorated financial condition of the SCC was due to the actions of the former Mayor who abused the funds.

It is alleged that Ratu Peni made these comments when questioned why the SCC cannot improve the road conditions in Suva and he went on to say the funds were limited as the former Mayor utilized it.

Representing Umaria Diven Prasad then also asked the court to note that Fiji Broadcasting Corporation not adhering to a subpoena to appear in court to present the evidence and the delays in making the recordings available.

Daily Post is also included in the action by Umaria as it is alleged that an article was printed also making allegations that Umaria had abused funds. Daily Post Editor Mesake Koroi took the stand and revealed that he was not the Editor at the newspaper at the time as he joined in 2005. He also informed the court that they had written to Umaria seeking a meeting to try and convince him to withdraw the legal proceedings against the Daily Post.

The case continues tomorrow.