19/09/2025
๐๐ก๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ญ๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ง๐๐ฒ-๐๐๐ง๐๐ซ๐๐ฅ ๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐ฌ ๐๐๐ฌ๐ฉ๐๐๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ญ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐๐๐ฌ๐ฌ๐๐ฌ
The Acting Attorney-General and Minister of Justice observed with grave concern social media posts commenting on matters that are currently before the courts. These posts, including those questioning the competence of witnesses, the decisions of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the independence of the judiciary, are wholly improper.
Such commentary has the potential to undermine public confidence in the administration of justice and may constitute contempt of court. It is crucial that the judicial process proceeds without external interference, speculation, or partisan commentary.
The independence and integrity of our Judiciary are critical. The court, and the court alone, will evaluate the evidence and make determinations in accordance with the law. Attempts to conduct parallel โtrialsโ through social media undermine the rule of law and risk prejudicing the rights of all parties involved.
Acting Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Honourable Siromi Turaga, stated:
โJustice must be allowed to take its course within the courtroom, not in the court of public opinion. We have full confidence in the Judiciary to perform its role independently and without fear or favour. Those who attempt to undermine this process through unfounded public commentary do a disservice to the rule of law and the people of Fiji.โ
Freedom of expression does not extend to conduct that interferes with or disrespects the administration of justice. Respect for judicial processes is not only a legal obligation but a democratic duty owed by every citizen to ensure fairness, equality before the law and the protection of rights for all. The public is therefore reminded to exercise restraint and respect the judicial process.
