FICAC files amended charge on day of perjury trial

The trial of former Fijian Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica on perjury charges will proceed tomorrow after the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) successfully sought leave to file amended charges on the morning of the trial.

FICAC prosecutor Josen Pene informed the Suva Magistrate Court that new information had been received, prompting the request for amendments. Defense counsel, led by senior lawyer Wylie Clarke, strongly objected, arguing they were unprepared for amended charges and had come to court ready for the trial. Magistrate Charles Ratakele adjourned the matter for 45 minutes to consider the application.

Ultimately, the magistrate granted FICAC leave to file the amended charges, noting that the request was made within the legal timeframe. The amended information was then read to Kamikamica, and his lawyer requested time until the following day to advise him on his plea. The three-day trial was originally scheduled to commence this morning.

Kamikamica faces charges of perjury and giving false information to a public servant. The allegations stem from his testimony during a Commission of Inquiry into the appointment of the FICAC Commissioner. It is alleged that between December 2024 and March 2025, Kamikamica, while under oath, wilfully made a material statement claiming no knowledge of the FICAC Commissioner's appointment prior to September 5, 2024. The alternative count alleges he provided false information to a Commissioner of Inquiry.