The High Court in Suva has dismissed an application by former iTaukei Lands Trust Board employee Josaia Waqairatu to overturn his two bribery convictions and have the matter heard again.

Justice Dane Tuiqereqere delivered the judgment on 5 October 2026.

Waqairatu was convicted by the Suva Magistrates Court on 28 August 2026 on two counts of bribery and was awaiting sentencing.

He sought to have the convictions quashed, arguing that his trial had not complied with Section 139 of the Criminal Procedure Act 2009 after the Resident Magistrate who presided over the trial was transferred.

However, the High Court found that the magistrate remained seized of the matter, having heard the evidence and closing submissions before determining Waqairatu’s guilt.

The Court consequently dismissed the application and made no order as to costs.

The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption was the respondent in the proceedings.