Former SODELPA Member of Parliament Simione Rasova appeared before Suva Magistrate Pulelari Low, this afternoon.

Rasova is charged with one count of providing false information to a public servant, for allegedly lying about his residence, and obtaining financial gain.

Rasova is represented by Suva lawyer Barbara Malimali.

Rasova is alleged to have falsely stated that his permanent place of residence was in Nasenivolau, Nabouwalu village, Ono, Kadavu Island and obtained $21,350 between July 2019 and April 2020.

Former Acting Secretary General to Parliament and first prosecution witness Viniana Namosimalua testified against Rasova in the hearing.

Namosimalua revealed in court that MPs are entitled to subsistence allowance if they live 30km outside of parliament.

She adds in the initial Member of Parliament Declaration form, Rasova had declared Waimanu Road, Suva as his permanent place of residence.

She informed the court that MPs have to inform parliament through a letter from someone in authority if they change their permanent place of residence.

It was heard in court that Rasova had submitted a letter on the 2nd of May, 2019, informing parliament that he changed his residential address to Nasenivolau, Nabouwalu Village, Ono, Kadavu.

A supporting letter from the Turaga Ni Koro confirming Rasova’s change in permanent residential address was also presented as evidence.

When questioned by FICAC lawyer, Josanne Pene on her understanding of permanent residence, Namosimalua says it is a place where someone live permanently and not just temporarily.

The hearing will continue tomorrow.