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Pacific Law Blog Archive

March 2008

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March 2008

From Various Media Sources / PacLII / Emalus Campus Library / Pacific Law Journal Index see also Pacific Law Blog archive

Blogs, Web Sites & Reports

USCompact.org web site : The Compact of Free Association between the Federated States of Micronesia and the United States provides for U.S. economic assistance (including eligibility for certain U.S. federal programs), defense of the FSM, and other benefits in exchange for U.S. defense and certain other operating rights in the FSM, denial of access to FSM territory by other nations, and other agreements......

from  Media Sources -

Bainimarama's lawyer complete submissions : LAWYERS for the army commander Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama and other defendants named with him have completed their closing address. more... - Fiji Times, 19 March

High Court rejects request : A request by The Fiji Times to have copies of submissions of lawyers in the court case against military commander Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama was rejected by the High Court yesterday. more... - Fiji Times, 19 March

Court powerless on Ratu Iloilo, says QC - Fiji Times, 19 March

Shaista: Constitution allows for review of presidential decisions - Fiji Times, 19 March

Immigration law is under review - Solomon Star, 18 March

Mother jailed for attack on girl : A Samoan mother of five has been jailed for three years after slamming her daughter’s face into the floor, leaving her with facial fractures. In a case a paediatrician described as the worst she had seen in professional practice, Taase Suaesi-Faamau, 37, was jailed for three years by Christchurch District Court Judge Stephen Erber after admitting a charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. - Samoa Observer, 18 March

Fiji Attorney Threatened By Military - Pacific Islands Report, 17 March

Moti’s Lawyers Want More Time - Pacific Magazine News, 17 March

Fiji NGO writes to Legal Commissioner in Melbourne over legal professionals working in Suva - RNZI News, 16 March

High court dismisses appeal : A FACTORY worker had his sentence appeal turned down yesterday because the court felt that the sentence was not wrong in principle. Appearing before Justice Nazhat Shameem, Jotame Nacili ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 15 March

NGO complaints against Justice Scutt: THE Public Centre for Public Integrity has written to the Office of the Legal Commissioner in Melbourne, Australia complaining against High Court judge Jocelyn Scutt. more... - Fiji Times, 14 March

Dinger defends human rights report: THE United States hopes Fiji Human Rights Commission chairperson Dr Shaista Shameem and others would take consideration on the Human Rights Report as a constructive comment. more... - Fiji Times, 14 March

Iloilo wrong, lawyer says - Fiji Times, 14 March

Man pays for hitting children: A 32-YEAR-old man was fined $150 yesterday for assaulting two children and was reminded that he was living in the new era. Josevata Liwanacagi of Naiborebore village in ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 14 March

Billion dollar lawsuit filed : LAWYERS of interim Finance Minister, Mahendra Chaudhry, filed a one billion dollar lawsuit yesterday. Chaudhry is represented by GP Lala and Associates in this matter where he is ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 14 March

Qarase: No call made for help : OUSTED Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase yesterday told the High Court he did not invite military intervention from foreign island countries but inquired about the possibility of military assistance. more... - Fiji Times, 13 March

Sex crimes a big problem : SEXUAL crimes against women are still a big problem for Fiji, according to the US State Department's Human Rights Country report released yesterday. more... - Fiji Times, 13 March

Mind your own, Shameem tells US : THE Fiji Human Rights Commission says it will not bother replying to a recent United States report on human rights on Fiji because it was not consulted before the report was published. more... - Fiji Times, 13 March

Men cleared of conspiracy to murder - Solomon Star, 12 March

Chaudhry cleared of tax allegations : INTERIM Finance Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has been cleared of any taxation breaches and will resume office from Monday next week. more... - Fiji Times, 12 March

Qarase to take stand : THE lawyer representing ousted prime minister Laisenia Qarase will not challenge the executive privilege protecting the President, Ratu Josefa Iloilo, military commander Commodore Voreqe Bainimarma and the President's official secretary, Rupeni Nacewa, to be cross examined in court. more... - Fiji Times, 12 March

Mediation reduces backlog in Tongan court - Matangi Tonga, 11 March

Coroner ‘abused power’ - Post-Courier (PNG), 11 March

LAND BILL UNSAMOAN: SUNGO : The Land Registration Bill 2008 is unconstitutional, unethical and unSamoan. That is the view of SUNGO, which also fears the bill will disturb the peace in Samoa. In a release issued yesterday, by president Va’asiliifiti Moelagi Jackson, on behalf of SUNGO’s Bills Committee, the umbrella organisation for non-government organisations in Samoa, clearly states opposition to the bill. - Samoa Observer, 10 March

Asiata files 8 legal actions : Samoa Democratic United Party (SDUP) leader Asiata Saliemoa Va’ai has filed eight legal actions to challenge the constitutionality of key Government measures. “They were filed yesterday (Friday),” Asiata said. - Samoa Observer, 10 March

LEGAL OR NOT? : Defence wants Doctrine of Necessity and Executive Power issue dropped THE main legal argument that will be discussed during the trial of deposed Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase is whether ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 7 March

Young father sentences for nine months in jail : A young father who was convicted of five charges, two of them relating to the riots of November 16, 2006 serves a nine months imprisonment sentence starting today. - Matangi Tonga, 7 March

from PacLII

_______________________________________

February 2008

Blogs & Reports

Briefing Note: The Marshall Islands Elections of 2007/08 (ANU) - Pacific Islands Report, February

from  Media Sources -

Fiji Citizens Group: Comply With Judge’s Order : Pacific Islands Report, 29 February

Fragile Media Freedom Under Threat In Pacific (Editorial) - Pacific Islands Report, 29 February

King Deposed On French Pacific Island Of Futuna - Pacific Islands Report, 29 February

Man tells court of near death attack - Solomon Star, 28 February

We expect Moti on normal flight: Sogavare - Solomon Star, 28 February

It’s the flight, not Moti, says Ashley - Solomon Star, 27 February

Senior lawyers in firing line - Fiji Times, 25 February

Judges decline State trial bid - Fiji Times, 25 February

Tonga To Set Up Anti-Corruption Commission - Pacific Islands Report, 25 February

PNG Court Voids Bougainville Election Results - Pacific Islands Report, 25 February

30 Years Later, Solomon Islanders No Better Off - Pacific Islands Report, 25 February

RAMSI to report directly to Solomons government - RNZI News, 25 February

Solomon Islands withdraws decision to reject RAMSI report - RNZI News, 24 February

Leave judges alone, new lawyers told - Fiji Times, 23 February

Guided democracy is no solution to PNG’s law and order problem - The National (PNG), 23 February

Sacked members of the GCC oppose transfer of case : Sacked members of the Great Council of Chief have opposed the application by the State to stay or transfer their judicial review case to another judge. more... - Fiji Times, 22 February

Judges will deal with issue of overcrowding, says Gates - Fiji Times, 22 February

Lawyer distances himself from society - Fiji Times, 22 February

Court to hear coup convicts' cases - Fiji Times, 22 February

Fiji Court warns editor and activist over their criticism of new judges - Matangi Tonga, 22 February

Life imprisonment for murderer - Matangi Tinga, 22 February

How Moti flight broke law - Solomon Star, 21 February

Accused claims police failed to caution him - Solomon Star, 21 February

Uphold duty to court, lawyers told - Fiji Times, 20 February

GCC order is flawed: Chief : THE taskforce commissioned by the interim Government to review the Great Council of Chiefs has admitted that the gazette which prescribes the role of the new-look council is flawed. - Fiji Times, 20 February

New law kicks in on April 2 - Fiji Times, 20 February

Castles arrived to give evidence - Solomon Star, 20 February

Bainimarama is GCC head - Fiji Times, 19 February

GCC gazette was flawed: Ratu Tu'uakitau : THE chairman of the Great Council of Chiefs Taskforce Ratu Tu'uakitau Cokanauto said the gazette regarding the new chairman was flawed. more... - Fiji Times, 19 February

Reverse ban, legal body pleads - Fiji Times, 19 February

Former justice man turns lecturer - Fiji Times, 19 February

Thief snatches judge's handbag - Fiji Times, 19 February

Fiji Blocks Entry Of Bar Association Member - Pacific Islands Report, 18 February

Fiji misses opportunity: Malaysian lawyer : FIJI has missed an opportunity to show its judicial process is above board and they have nothing to hide as the International Bar Association was very neutral in their observations and were highly experienced. more... - Fiji Times, 18 February

Issue over judges home - Fiji Times, 18 February

Expats to sit on Supreme Court - Fiji Times, 18 February

Accused lodges brutality complaint - Fiji Times, 18 February

Court to decide on legality issue - Fiji Times, 18 February

11-year jail sentence for rioter who lit fire : Today, in handing down prison terms ranging from 11 years to six months on a group of seven 16/11 rioters, Chief Justice Anthony Ford said that everyone in Tonga would remember this day, "as a day of infamy and shame where there was no law and order and anarchy prevailed." - Matangi Tonga, 18 February

Seven jailed over Tonga riot crimes - RNZI News, 18 February

Three lawyers admitted to bar - Samoa Observer, 15 February

Khan did not breach bail : The High Court yesterday ordered embattled businessman Ballu Khan to be immediately released from police custody after ruling that he did not breach any of his bail conditions. more... - Fiji Times, 15 February

Warrant squad after offenders - Solomon Star, 15 February

Ex-policeman says he interpreted for accused - Fiji Times, 15 February

Marijuana in jail concerns CJ : Cases of marijuana being found inside prison was of great concern, Chief Justice Patu Tiava’asu’e Falefatu Sapolu said.The Chief Justice made the remark during the hearing of a second prisoner on Monday, who admitted having been in possession of the drug, at Tafa’igata Prison. - Samoa Observer, 15 February

PNG Attorney General: ‘Rotten’ Corruption Rampant - Pacific Islands Report, 15 February

Fatiaki tribunal adjourned : A member of the tribunal hearing against suspended Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki tendered his Presidential appointment letter to both counsels today. more... - Fiji Times, 14 February

Tribunal validity queried - Fiji Times, 14 February

Judiciary aid on hold - Fiji Times, 14 February

Sayed-Khaiyum defends judge - Fiji Times, 14 February

Fiji To Overhaul Great Council Of Chiefs - Pacific Islands Report, 14 February

Do not misuse court, Beddoes says : OUSTED opposition leader Mick Beddoes said the authority of the court was being misused by Judges to defend their positions and utterances at a public forum. more... - Fiji Times, 13 February

Court convicts fraud suspects - Fiji Times, 13 February

Union goes to court - Fiji Times, 13 February

Shameem attack's a red herring, Fa says - Fiji Times, 13 February

Judge rules in favour of former ministers - Solomon Star, 13 February

Officer tells court of investigation - Solomon Star, 13 February

Failure To Register To Vote A Crime In Tonga - Pacific Islands Report, 13 February

Cooks Ombudsman says she will be looking for good buy in over freedom of information bill - RNZI News, 13 February

Appeal judges opportunists - Fiji Times, 12 February

Court rejects Fatiaki's bid - Fiji Times, 12 February

FLS to look for counsel : THE application by the Fiji Law Society (FLS) against the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) was called before the High Court Master in Suva yesterday for mention. Noleen Karan appeared ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 12 February

Cook Islands government introduces freedom of information legislation - RNZI News, 12 February

Ex-militants tried for attempted murder - Solomon Star, 12 February

Rural Vanuatu To Get Electronic Banking - Pacific Islands Report, 12 February

Legal group backs stand : The Fiji Indigenous Lawyers Association has endorsed the stand of the Fiji Law Society that the appointments of puisne judges and appeal judges since December 2006 are illegal. more... - Fiji Times, 11 February

“LICENSE TO KILL” LAW NEARS : The proposed law that has generally been described as the “license to kill on Samoan roads” is getting closer to becoming a reality.Already, the bill aimed at making it possible has been drafted. To be called the Road Transport Reform Act 2008, this legislation has been viewed as unnecessary and a threat to people’s lives when it’s enforced. - Samoa Observer, 9 February

No more posts, Gates urged - Fiji Times, 8 February

Judge Scutt’s words shocks law society : THE Fiji Law Society is shocked and surprised at the public outburst of High Court Judge Justice Jocelyn Scutt, supporting the 2006 election report that was commissioned by ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 7 February

Police could have stopped the riot - Solomon Star, 7 February

Legal fraternity farewells judge - Fiji Times, 7 February

Grandma bashed children with her walking stick : Grandmother Sala Talalupe has been denied bail after being convicted of beating her 12-year-old grandson with a walking stick, a garden hose and an electric cord.The 59-year-old unemployed Hastings woman has been in custody since being found guilty last week on three charges of assaulting her grandson with a weapon. - Samoa Observer, 6 February

Stole out of stupidity: offender : A 29-year-old man who admitted stealing $22,700 from his employer has apologised in the Supreme Court.
“I did it out of stupidity,” Fotu Tiatia of Satupa’itea and Gataivai, told the court. - Samoa Observer, 6 February

Man changes to not guilty plea in carnal knowledge : A 54-year-old man has changed his plea to not guilty to a charge of carnal knowledge of a female between the ages of 12 and 16, who is not his wife. He changed his plea after the police’s summary of facts was read out in the Supreme Court. - Samoa Observer, 6 February

Court of Appeals first two women - Fiji Times, 6 February

Judge Is First Fijian Named To Court Of Appeal - Pacific Islands Report, 6 February

PM’s not guilty stand - Solomon Star, 6 February

Court dismisses damages claim for derelict ship - Matangi Tonga, 6 February

Heffernan files suit against A-G : PRO-DEMOCRACY activist Angie Heffernan will be filing for a judicial review on the termination of her appointment as a commissioner of the Legal Aid Commission (LAC). Interim Attorney-General Aiyaz ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 5 February

Legal year opens - Solomon Star, 5 February

Gov’t urged to seriously address lawyers’ service - Solomon Star, 5 February

Kabui raises concern over top legal post - Solomon Star, 5 February

Legal Year launched - Post-Courier (PNG), 5 February

Lawyers told to serve people - Post-Courier (PNG), 5 February

NGO hopes envoy won’t meddle with judges : THE Citizens’ Constitutional Forum (CCF) on Friday welcomed the visit by the International Bar Association (IBA) and believed that the visit would not interfere with the independence of ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 4 February

Heffernan removed from legal aid : INTERIM Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has revoked the appointment of pro-democracy activist Angie Heffernan as a Legal Aid commissioner because of what he says is a “conflict of ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 4 February

Ruling was fair, court tells convicts : TWO convicts appeal against their conviction and sentence yesterday was dismissed at a High Court in Suva. Appearing before Justice Nazhat Shameem Apisai Naqamu, 44, and Antonio Nausu, 27, ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 2 February

Shameem concerned about IBA visit : OMBUDSMAN, Dr Shaista Shameem is concerned about the timing of the proposed visit of the International Bar Association (IBA) Human Rights Institute and what it would mean for its effects on the independence of Fiji's judiciary. more... - Fiji Times, 1 February

Legal team not welcome: Regime - Fiji Times, 1 February

State files stay order on Fatiaki case : THE High Court in Suva yesterday adjourned the former chief Justice, Daniel Fatiaki’s case to be heard on February 15. The case was called before Justice Davendra Pathik ... more - Fiji Times, 1 February

from PacLII

from Emalus Campus Library

Author : MacPherson, Cluny; MacPherson, La'avasa
Title The nature and limits of traditional dispute resolution processes in contemporary Samoa.
SOURCE: Pacific Studies 29 (1/2) March/June 2006 pp. 128-158
URL: http://www.vanuatu.usp.ac.fj/sol%5Fadobe%5Fdocuments/usp%20only/pacific%20law/MacPherson Nature limits traditional dispute resolution.pdf

January 2008

From Various Media Sources / PacLII / Emalus Campus Library / Pacific Law Journal Index see also Pacific Law Blog archive

Blogs & Reports

from  Media Sources -

CNMI Court Rules FSM Citizens Deportable Aliens - Pacific Islands Report, 31 January

Call for change of Nauru's status - RNZI News, 31 January

CJ’s office broken into: Chief Justice Patu Tiava’asu’e Falefatu Sapolu’s office at Tauese was broken into Tuesday night.
The break-in was discovered yesterday morning. - Samoa Observer, 30 January

Human rights body under review - Fiji Times, 30 January

Tonga Government Listed Among World’s Corrupt - Pacific zislands Report, 30 January

Attorney-General to amend Penal Code - Fiji Times, 29 January

Khan says crime trend declines - Solomon Star, 29 January

Stroke of cane still valid: Director : THE magistrate that sentenced an offender to be stroked by cane probably made the order because the punishment was still valid in the Penal Code, Human Rights Director clarified yesterday. more... - Fiji Times, 28 January

No backlog in cases: Koroi - Fiji Times, 28 January

Court to hear State's appeal - Fiji Times, 28 January

Court exhibits stolen - Post-Courier (PNG), 28 January

Slap lands husband in court : A MAN convicted for slapping his wife has been given clearance by the court to appeal his three months sentence. Mohammed Riaz was granted an appeal by Justice Daniel ... more - Fiji Times, 26 January

Judiciary hiccups since Coup - Fiji Broadcasting Corp, 25 January

Outgoing Fiji judge concerned about judicial system - RNZI News, 25 January

Justice Coventry farewelled : High Court judge Justice Roger Coventry who has terminated his contract to the bench raised concerns about the judiciary, the actions of the judges and the progress of cases of fundamental importance at his farewell last night. more... - Fiji Times, 25 January

Action scandalous, judge says - Fiji Times, 25 January

Law Society wants more indigenous members - Fiji Times, 25 January

Meo fronts court for abuse : FORMER Director of the Fiji Institute of Technology, Kolinio Meo, yesterday pleaded not guilty to charges of abuse of office before Magistrate Aruna Prasad. Meo was charged with one ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 25 January

Prisoner to be stroked : The Nadi Magistrate Court today ordered four strokes of cane for a serving prisoner in addition to his 10- year jail term for robbing and assaulting a tourist that led to the loss of his left eye. more... - Fiji Times, 25 January

Court throws out FICAC appeal - Fiji Times, 25 January

Magistrate challenges High Court ruling - Fiji Times, 25 January

State queries court costs : THE Interim Minister of Labour, Mahendra Chaudhry has been ordered to reconsider the unresolved issues regarding the nurses’ strike and decide whether or not to refer them to ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 25 January

Killer mum denied bail : A WOMAN charged with murdering her two daughters was denied bail by the Magistrates Court in Nausori yesterday. Ronita Devi, 22, of Khalsa Road appeared before Magistrate Vani Ravono ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 25 January

Justice council is independent: AG : THE Criminal Justice Council is totally independent of Government, says Interim Attorney General, Minister for Justice, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. He made the comments at the council’s first meeting on Wednesday, ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 25 January

Riot is not planned: Ne’e - Solomon Star, 24 January

SDUP LEADER SUING GOVT : The leader of the Opposition Asiata Dr Sale’imoa Va’ai is suing the government for alleged Constitutional violation. He is filing eight different actions in which he claims the government has acted unconstitutionally.
“I’ve been looking at political issues and the political situation in this country since 2001 and wondering what future is there for political oppositions given the Human Rights Protection Party’s (HRPP) dominance?” Asiata says. - Samoa Observer, 24 January

Teacher of 16 years convicted of forgery and theft : A teacher of 16 years was yesterday convicted of forgery and theft by District Court, Judge Tauiliili Harry Schuster. The court heard that Sanele Ioselani, 37, of Alafua, Palisi and Vaitoomuli forged his wife’s signature and cashed $70 from her account at the ANZ Bank branch at Salelologa on 30 May 2007. - Samoa Observer, 24 January

SHAMEEM BACKS CHIEFS' CASE : Amicus feels ex-GCC members have good case THE amicus in the case brought by the former members of the Great Council of Chiefs against the State has submitted that the ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 23 January

Land Act up for review : MOVES are underway to review the Land Conservation and Improvement Act. The Ministry of Agriculture organised a consultation workshop for stakeholders at the Raffles Tradewinds Hotel in Lami yesterday. The ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 23 January

Lawyer’s award deemed ‘excessive’ : THE leave application to appeal Justice Roger Coventry’s ruling on costs awarding Tupou Draunidalo $20,000 was heard in Chambers before Justice John Byrnes on Monday. In granting the leave ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 23 January

Criminal Justice Council revived : WITH an aim of combatting the challenges experienced by the agencies in the administration of the Criminal Justice System, the Criminal Justice Council met for the first time in almost 10 years. more... - Fiji Times, 23 January

Samoa court admits error in sending convict to youth rehab centre - RNZI News, 23 January

PM pledges RAMSI support - Solomon Star, 23 January

Solomons Government Declares Moti Prohibited Immigrant  - Solomon Times Online, 23 January

Solomon Islands government says new legislation will clamp down on compensation - RNZI News, 22 January

Man attacked estranged wife with illegal firearm : A 37-year-old man was acquitted in the Nuku'alofa Supreme Court on Friday, January 18, of attempting to murder his wife with an illegally-possessed .22 rifle, but the jury found him guilty on other charges of causing her bodily harm. - Matangi Tonga, 22 January

Split in DPPs office - Fiji Times, 22 January

Kill plot case up to High Court - Fiji Times, 22 January

Dip Chand rape conviction set aside : JAILED rapist Dip Chand breathed a sigh of relief yesterday after the Lautoka High Court set aside his 20-year sentence for raping three girls in Rakiraki, Ra and ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 21 January

Police not ready for riots - Solomon Star, 21 January

Tokelau atoll of Fakaofo chooses new leader as Atafu and Nukunonu retain their faipule - RNZI News, 21 January

Fiji Court allows resumption of Fiji Water exports - RNZI News, 21 January

Samoa reviews foreign investment law : Samoa is reviewing its foreign investment regime.
And at the request of the Chief Executive Officer of Samoa’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Labour (MCIL), Lemalu Tate Simi, FIAS is assisting in reviewing the current legal framework for foreign investment. - Samoa Observer, 20 January

Commission snubs lawyers group : The Fiji Law Society president, Isireli Fa, has not been invited to attend the Judicial Service Commission meetings since his appointment. ... - Fiji Times, 18 January

New Income Tax Act regulations passed today : The Tonga Cabinet today passed new regulations for the new Income Tax Act, as well as introducing new Customs duty rates and regulations, and Excise duty rates and regulations. They are all gazetted today, the Prime Minister Dr Feleti Sevele said this afternoon. - Matangi Tonga, 18 January

Former Land and Titles Court judge passes away - Samoa Observer, 16 January

Video footage of rioting now use in investigation - Solomon Star, 16 January

Ex-judge writes up magistrates report : The inquiry was called for after the Law Association for Asia and the Pacific's (LAWASIA) observer mission to Fiji in March, 2007, noted there were ... - Fiji Times, 15 January

Fa disagrees with chamber comments : CEASING chamber hearings in the interests of judicial accountability imply that it breeds corruption and dishonesty, says Fiji Law Society president Isireli ... - Fiji Times, 14 January

Vanuatu’s Port Vila Has Become Hotbed Of Crime - Vanuatu Daily Post, 12 January

State wants bail for accused revoked - Fiji Times, 8 January

Attorney General job up for grab - Solomon Star, 8 January

Traditional Chief Is New Marshalls President - Pacific Islands Report, 8 January

Nauru: The Little Island That Can’t - Sydney Morning Herald, 30 December

Keep President Fijian - Fiji Times, 7 January

Tomeing Is New Marshalls President : Marshall Islands MPs have elected Litokwa Tomeing as the country's new president reports the Sydney Morning Herald. Politicians in the... - Pacific Magazine News, 7 January

Marshall Islands election decision overturned - Radio Australia News, 7 January

Sexual attack penalties considered: THE increase in sexual assaults against women has prompted the interim Government to consider exploring harsher penalties to deter perpetrators. more... - Fiji Times, 4 January

Marshall Islands: Parliament meets on Monday to choose new President - Islands Business, 4 January

Former Solomons attorney general granted bail - Radio Australia News, 4 January

Three new acting judges appointed - Post-Courier (PNG), 4 January

American Samoa Govt Drafting Malpractice Legislation : The American Samoa government is drafting legislation that would have LBJ Medical Center pay any malpractice suits against the hospital and the government. The... - Pacific Magazine News, 3 January
Vanuatu Agency Unprepared For 2008 Elections - Pacific Islands Report, 2 January

Saipan Court Rejects Bid To Allow Aliens On Jury  - Pacific Islands Report, 2 January

I'm a political prisoner, says Khan : THE key suspect in the alleged assassination plot says he is a political prisoner because others arrested with him have been released on bail, reports TVNZ. more... - Fiji Times, 2 January

QC files for unlawful custody : THE New Zealand Businessman, Ballu Khan, yesterday filed an unlawful custody against the Commissioner of Police in the Suva High Court before Justice Jocelyn Scult. The Queens Counsel representing ... more - Fiji Daily Post, 1 January

Bikini: Fix the injustice : Attorneys for Bikini and Enewetak islanders filed briefs with the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington, DC on Friday, appealing a lower court judge’s ruling that dismissed their multi-billion dollar claims against the US government. The Bikini brief argues that the lower court was in error when it dismissed the islanders’ claim, and is asking the Appeals Court to send the case back for trial. Continued - Marshall Islands Journal, 28 December

Gateway to Pacific law bridges gap for Samoa’s judges and lawyers - Samoa Observer, 19 December

from PacLII

December 2007

From Various Media Sources / PacLII / Emalus Campus Library / Pacific Law Journal Index see also Pacific Law Blog archive

Blogs & Reports

Impunity Watch Oceania - Bainimarama issues warning to Fiji's lawyers

from  Media Sources -

Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki saga : The Fiji Law Society then challenged the appointment of Justice Gates as acting CJ as it filed for legal clarification over the matter. ... - Fiji Times, 31 December

Judges play their politics : ... to then Fiji Law Society president Devanesh Sharma about the need to appoint an acting Chief Justice. "He (Sayed-Khaiyum) had obtained independent legal ... - Fiji Times, 26 December

Solomons sacks Moti, next stop Australia : Moti is wanted in Australia on charges he raped a 13-year-old girl in Vanuatu in 1997. He denies the charges, saying they were dismissed in a Vanuatu court ... - Sydney Morning Herald, 24 December

Moti loses legal bid : Moti is wanted in Australia to face charges he raped a 13-year-old girl in Vanuatu in 1997. He denies the charges, saying they were dismissed in a Vanuatu ... - OneNews (NZ), 23 December

Nurses compensated for damages: The Minister for Labour are to compensate the Fiji Nurses Association for damages over the nurses' strike. - Radio Fiji News, 19 December

Local Law Students Graduate in Vanuatu: Eleven Solomon Islands students graduated at the University of the South Pacific Emalus Campus in Port Vila, Vanuatu. ... - Solomon Times Online, 17 December

Kijis pursuit of justice: In September that year, she was admitted to the Fiji Bar as a barrister and solicitor. Following this, she worked at a private law firm for two months ... - Fiji Times, 15 December

Pacfic politics expert warns more riots possible: A Pacific expert is warning that riots in Tonga and Solomon Islands targeting Chinese immigrants could flare up elsewhere - most likely in Fiji and Vanuatu. - tv3 News (NZ), 13 December

Shameem wary of regional court idea: THE proposed regional court setup should be treated with caution, says Dr Shaista Shameem. more... - Fiji Times, 13 December

Appeals Court sets 2008 dates - Fiji Times, 13 December

Search warrants ‘a judicial prerogative’ - Fiji Sun, 13 December

Chaudhry sues watchdog - Fiji Sun, 13 December

Apologise, Harder tells those responsible for 16/11: Christopher Harder, a defence lawyer in Tonga's 16/11 sedition trials, in a surprise move today, has called for apologies from all parties who were responsible for the riots, after carrying out his own investigation into the tragedy. - Matangi Tonga, 12 December

Operation centre closed during riot, inquiry told - Solomon Star, 12 December

Content islanders reject capitalism for traditional trade - New Zealand Herald, 12 December

Solomons parliament set to resume after High Court dismisses PM's challenge - RNZI News, 12 December

Recounts Expected In Marshalls Election Debacle - Pacific Islands Report, 12 December

Study into Pacific matrilineal land tenure published - RNZI News, 11 December

Harder to reapply for a Tonga law licence in January: A revision of the licence of the New Zealand lawyer Christopher Harder to practice in Tonga is still being looked at by Christopher's representative in Tonga, Clive Edwards and the President of the Tonga Law society, Laki Niu, said the Registrar of the Tongan Supreme Court, Manako Vi. - Matangi Tonga, 10 December

Pacific judges discuss jailing "breadwinners" convicted of domestic violence - RNZI News, 9 December

Marshalls Election Mess Gets Worse - Pacific Magazine News, 8 December

Judges support a regional Pacific court - Pacific Magazine News, 7 December

New Cook Islands Laws Target Road Safety - Pacific Islands Report, 7 December

Lawyers argue PM abuse court process - Solomon Star, 7 December

Judge to rule on case today - Solomon Star, 7 December

Fight on for Sir Allan - Solomon Star, 7 December

Solomons’ Kemakeza Sentenced To 2 Months Prison - Pacific Islands Report, 6 December

Guilty verdict in second 16/11 group trial: A jury found a group of six 16/11 rioters guilty on 17 charges at the Nuku'alofa Supreme Court this morning. - Matangi Tonga, 5 December

“JUDGE ERRED”: The Court of Appeal has ruled that “the judge erred” when he determined that the sale... MORE - Samoa Observer, 5 December

Call for special sex court - Fiji Times, 5 December

Prisoner threatens high court judge - Fiji Times, 5 December

Pacific Islands Judiciary Deliberate Human Rights: The Honourable Chief Justice of the Family Court of Australia yesterday called on Pacific Island judges and magistrates to embrace a culture of... - Pacific Magazine News, 5 December

Police confused during riots, inquiry told - Solomon Star, 5 December

Former Mayor jailed - Solomon Star, 5 December

Kennedy’s jail term reduced to $500 fine - Solomon Star, 5 December

Govt lawyers to be better paid - Post-Courier (PNG), 5 December

Justice CEO rejects corruption allegation: The Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Justice and Courts Administration, Masinalupe Tusipa Masinalupe has rejected allegations of corruption against staff of his Ministry... MORE - Samoa Observer, 4 December

Second Group Jury Trial Underway - Tonga Now, 3 December

CORRUPTION AT JUSTICE ALLEGED: Corrupt staff caused long delays in cases going before the Land and Titles Court, says a commission of inquiry.In a report already submitted to Cabinet, The Commission of Inquiry into Matters Relating to the Divergence between the Decision Making Authority of the Alii & Faipuke and the Formal Courts, noted:... MORE - Samoa Observer, 3 December

Aiyaz snubbed: INTERIM Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum was asked not to attend a Fiji Law Society event two weeks ago because members of the international community that opposed the interim regime would be there. more... - Fiji Times, 3 December

Crime manual targets youth - Fiji Times, 3 December

RASMI helped dispel Honiara violence: police >Radio Australia News, 3 December

Talk to law society, Ali says - Fiji Times, 2 DecemberFiji's interim Attorney General defends creation of Commission Against Corruption

Full bench vital, Gates says - Fiji Times, 2 December

Fiji's interim Attorney General defends creation of Commission Against Corruption - RNZI, 2 December

Judiciary vacancies to be filled - Fiji Times, 1 December

Voreqe attacks corrupt lawyers - Fiji Times, 1 December

Judge against law in Taito's case - Samoa Observer, 1 December

Commission: balance between customs and rights possible - Samoa Observer, 30 November

from PacLII

November 2007

From Various Media Sources / PacLII / Emalus Campus Library / Pacific Law Journal Index see also Pacific Law Blog archive

from  Media Sources -

Fatiaki wants to add tribunal trio in suit - Fiji Times, 30 November

Bainimarama launches attack on NZ lawyers - RNZI News, 30 November

Lawyers should uphold justice, says Dr Marat: LAWYERS must constantly strive to maintain moral ethics and integrity, Minister for justice and Attorney General of Papua New Guinea Dr Allan Marat said at the graduation ceremony of lawyers from the Legal Training Institute (LTI) yesterday. - The National (PNG), 29 November

Fiji interim cabinet minister wins defamation case against Fiji Times. - RNZI News, 29 November

PNG's Chief Ombudsman says freedom of information laws vital for democracy - RNZI News, 29 November

Marshall Islands Opposition claims election victory - RNZI News, 29 November

Political reform, not "when" but "what?": The status of Tonga's political reform remains exactly where it was stuck when the members of parliament voted on it before the closure of parliament at the end of October. EDITOR'S COMMENT - Matangi Tonga, 29 November.

Moti explains law suit - Solomon Star, 29 November

Parliament receives copies of proclamation - Solomon Star, 29 November

A-G conference to look at laws: THE Attorney General's Conference, which gets underway this weekend with the theme 'Progressing Fiji and the Law', will feature a lineup of high profile speakers. more... - Fiji Times, 28 November

Moti Asks Solomons Court To Block Parliament - Pacific Islands Report, 28 November

Court dismisses Fincorp’s application: THE National Court has dismissed an application by Fincorp for leave to seek a judicial review of a directive by Chief Secretary Isaac Lupari which stops all salary deductions from public servants for loan repayments. - The National (PNG), 28 November

Judges reject Fatiaki bid - Fiji Times, 27 November

TAITO IN COURT, BAILED:  In an extremely rare event, Samoan politician Taito Phillip Field yesterday stood in a criminal dock. He was summoned to face 40 charges of bribery, corruption and perverting the court of justice. He appeared before Manukau District Court Judge Blackie but the public will not get to see images of him in the Court Room Two dock for the time being following court rulings yesterday. - Samoa Observer, 26 November

Lawyer Singh loses appeal - Fiji Times, 26 November

Fatiaki case set for February - Fiji Times, 26 November

We’re going to court over date, says PM - Solomon Star, 26 November

Fono fears possible constitutional crisis - Solomon Star, 26 November

Witness saw accused carrying a carton of beer: The second group trial of seven defendants charged in relation to the destruction in Nuku'alofa during the November 16 riots entered its seventh day today as the examination of witnesses continues. - Matangi Tonga, 26 November

Magistrate grills DPP's office over file delays - Fiji Times, 23 November

Early Results Indicate Upset In Marshalls Election - Pacific Islands Report, 26 November

Tribunal to justify inquiry in legal battle: A three-member tribunal named to conduct an inquiry into allegations of misconduct by suspended Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki has been named as defendants in a case against the ..... - Fiji Sun, 23 November

Law Week an Outstanding Success: Chief Justice - Tonga Now, 23 November

Historic law documents on line in Solomons - RNZI News, 22 November

Solomon Islands Law Now Online - Pacific Magazine News, 22 November

Fatiaki seeks court order - Fiji Times, 22 November

Plot suspects' bail decision today: TWO of the 11 people implicated in the alleged assassination plot against key interim government ministers and military officers appeared in the Suva Magistrate Court this morning. more... - Fiji Times, 22 November

Court told Sikua swore at officers - Solomon Star, 22 November

Act now or we go to court, says Fono - Solomon Star, 22 November

Julian Moti to seek court ruling - Solomon Star, 22 November

Govt, NGOs urged to work together: Government and non government organisations need to work together to strengthen the implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) in the Pacific. Vanuatu’s Minister of Justice and Social Welfare, Joshua Kalsakau made this comment at the official opening of the Pacific Sub Regional Workshop for the Implementation of CEDAW. - Solomon Star, 20 November

Judge roasts interim A-G: A HIGH Court judge has found the interim Attorney-General "irresponsible" and having an "ulterior purpose" in instituting court proceedings against former Fiji Law Society vice president Tupou Draunidalo. more... - Fiji Times, 21 November

Fatiaki faces day in court: SUSPENDED Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki faces six allegations of misbehaviour, two of which involve the alleged role he played in advising the then President in the drafting of decrees in 2000. more... - Fiji Times, 21 November

Amend bail request, court tells lawyers - Fiji Times, 21 November

Rasta freed of QQQ case - Solomon Star, 20 November

Suspended Fiji chief justice to face tribunal next week. - RNZI Newws, 20 November

Mediators learn to administer customary land issues, disputes - The National (PNG), 20 November

Federal court dismisses lawsuit vs DPS, 4 police officers - Marianas Variety, 20 November

Tonga's First Ever Law Week Ends - Tonga Now. 19 November

Claim: jailed by mistake: A 60-year-old man claims he is serving time in jail because of inefficiency in the National Bank of Samoa regarding debt. - Samoa Observer, 19 November

All about good governance - Fiji Times, 17 November

Courts must be independent to protect people's rights, says chief judge - Matangi Tonga, 16 November

As the book of rules says: "We are also empowered by law to bail accused persons to attend court at a later date after being charged." Director Legal Aid Filimoni Vosarogo whose ... - Fiji Times, 16 November

Fiji Law Society wants politics to be kept ouf legal process - Fiji Times, 14 November

Semisi: Courts have pivotal role to play - Fiji Times, 13 November

Magistrate slams NHC over ejection: CHIEF Magistrate John Numapo has stopped all 70 district courts in the country from hearing matters filed by the National Housing Corporation (NHC) after it evicted a court clerk in Lae The National (PNG), 9 November

Fiji's DPP denies any rift or threats from police - RNZI News, 9 November

Christopher Harder's Tongan law licence under review: The Tongan law practitioner licence granted to a disgraced Auckland lawyer Christopher Harder is being reviewed by the Tongan judiciary, after his admission to the Tongan bar caused an uproar among the legal profession in New Zealand - Matangi Tonga, 8 November

Plot suspects denied bail: THE 11 suspects in the alleged plot to assassinate interim Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and senior members of his interim regime have been denied bail. more... - Fiji Times, 8 November

DPP confirms being threatened: THE Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has confirmed being threatened by police on Tuesday. more... - Fiji Times, 8 November

Killer is insane, court finds - Fiji Times, 8 November

Change in transport law - Fiji Times, 8 November

Plot suspects remanded: THE 10 suspects in the alleged assassination plot have been remanded in custody until their bail application is heard tomorrow. more... - Fiji Times, 7 November

Judge and lawyer on edge in heated courtroom debate - Post-Courier (PNG), 7 November

PNG High Court Threatens Against Moti Disclosure - Pacific Islands Report, 7 November

Calls for Tonga jury system to be abolished - Tonga Now, 5 November

DPP threatened with arrest over plot: THE Director of Public Prosecution and his deputy have been threatened with arrest if they remained firm in refusing to take to trial the case of seven men charged for allegedly plotting an assassination of senior government officials. more... - Fiji Times, 6 November

Chief charged in plot to kill - Fiji Times, 6 November

Further fall-out over Tokelau vote outcome - RNZI News, 6 November

McCartney murder case dismissed - Fiji Times, 6 November

15 held over assassination 'plot': Fifteen people were detained by police yesterday over an alleged plot to assassinate interim Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama. more... - Fiji Times, 5 November

No emergency regulations: Army: The Fiji Military Forces will not impose the Public Emergency Regulations as the army and the police are working together to maintain law and order in Fiji. more... - Fiji Times, 5 November

Legal Aid to benefit from trust account interest - Fiji Times, 5 November

Sedition trials postponed to August 2008 - Matangi Tonga, 5 November

Judicial independence, a top issue for Pacific Justices at Tonga conference -  Matangi Tonga, 5 November

Jurors acquit six men in first 16/11 group trial - Matangi Tonga, 5 November

6 new judges named - The National (PNG), 5 November

Justice, Judges Retained In Saipan Election - Pacific Magazine News, 5 November

Proposed Cooks Labor Law Called Unrealistic - Pacific Islands Report, 2 November

Courts in mess, says official - Post-Courier (PNG), 2 November

Kii acquitted of corruption - Solomon Star, 2 November

Judge raps minister over Moti report - Solomon Star, 2 November

from PacLII

from Emalus Campus Library

New articles index for Pacific Law Journals Index:

October 2007

From Various Media Sources / PacLII / Emalus Campus Library / Pacific Law Journal Index see also Pacific Law Blog archive

Blogs & Reports

RAMSI People's Survey 2007 - http://www.ramsi.org/node/243

Melanesia in Review: Issues and Events, 2006:

• Fiji
• New Caledonia
• Solomon Islands
• Vanuatu

from  Media Sources -

Orientation for new magistrates: NEW resident magistrates are attending a first-ever orientation program to learn the judicial skills required for success in a court system. more... - Fiji Times, 25 October

Leave judges alone: Pathik: HIGH Court judge Justice Davendra Pathik defended his appointment in court yesterday and issued a strong warning for lawyers to leave all judges alone. more...

Sir Allan denies ordering raid on Sol-Law - Solomon Star, 25 October

West Papuans charged: four held over murder of magistrate - The National (PNG), 25 October

Fiji High Court judge rejects application to disqualify him. - RNZI News, 25 October

Magistrate Calls on Lawyers to Accelerate Cases through the Courts - Tonga Now, 24 October

Vanuatu Lawmakers Charged With Fraud - Pacific Islands Report, 24 October

Solomons Court Drops Charge Against Kemakeza - Pacific Islands Report, 24 October

Prisons system faces review - Fiji Times, 23 October

DPP to reform legal service - Fiji Times, 23 October

Investment Act date revoked - Solomon Star, 23 October

Lusibaea out on bail - Solomon Star, 23 October

Solomons court drops robbery charges against former PM Kemakeza. - RNZI News, 23 October

What the 38th Pacific Islands Forum decided - Samoa Observer, 21 October

I have reached ultimate goal, says puisne judge: FORMER assistant Director of Public Prosecutions, Daniel Gounder is happy with his new appointment as a puisne judge in the High Court. more... - Fiji Times, 22 October

New Solomons Chief Magistrate Appointed: Chief Justice, Sir Albert Palmer CBE, has announced the appointment of Leonard Maina as the new Chief Magistrate of Solomon... - Pacific Magazine News, 22 October

Tokelau referendum under way - RNZI News, 22 October

Ombudsman Notes Decline In Labor Complaints: There has been a decline in the number of labor complaints filed in CNMI, despite fears that many alien workers who are losing jobs... - Pacific Magazine News, 22 October

Niue seeks an independent lawyer and accountant - RNZI News, 22 October

PNG magistrate stoned to death - RNZI News, 22 October

Law unclear on capital punishment - The National (PNG), 22 October

NOT GUILTY: A 54-year-old man who took home a 12-year-old girl he met at Fugalei Market was found not guilty of abduction and indecent assault yesterday at the Supreme Court. - Samoa Observer, 19 October

Praise for new court model - Fiji Times, 19 October

Acting Chief Justice says no need to probe Fiji judiciary - RNZI News, 19 October

Judiciary not compromised says Bainimarama: There was an assumption that because of the events of 5/12 by the Republic of the Fiji Military Forces that the judiciary could have been compromised. more... - Fiji Times, 18 October

Kean guilty of manslaughter: NAVY Commander Francis Kean was convicted by the High Court yesterday after he admitted to the charge of manslaughter. more... - Fiji Times, 18 October

Court inquiry set to roll - Fiji Times, 18 October

Defence has time to file response in redress case - Fiji Times, 18 October

Corruption high in PNG: TI- - Post-Courier (PNG), 18 October

Bodyguard Implicates Kemakeza In Solomons Trial - Pacific Islands Report, 18 October

UN Observers On Route To New Tokelau Referendum- Pacific Islands Report, 18 October

Kiribati President Anote Tong Reelected- Pacific Islands Report, 18 October

Samoa Chief Justice calls on authorities to reconsider penalty for narcotics - RNZI News, 18 October

Victims Support Group appoints CEO, Case Officer: The Samoa Victims Support Group has made two important appointments in its bid to improve the services it provides. - Samoa Observer, 17 October

LAWASIA recommended Inquiry into Magistracy:Connors: CHAIRPERSON of the Commission of Inquiry into the Magistrates Court former High Court Judge John Connors said the Law Association for Asia and the Pacific recommended an inquiry into the magistracy. more... - Fiji Times, 17 October

Police blame judiciary for aiding offenders: The Fiji Police Force has raised serious concerns on the judiciary’s competency in containing violent crimes in the country after the High Court recently granted bail to four robbery suspects on Monday. Police spokesperson Assistant Superintendent I..... - Fiji Sun, 17 October

Solicitor General sentence ‘stayed’ - Post-Courier (PNG), 17 October

Solomons Court Nixes Injunction To Stop Dolphin Deal - Pacific Islands Report, 17 October

'Anarchy and civil war risk' to South Pacific - Telegraph (UK), 17 October

FORUM: Fiji Commits To Early 2009 Elections - Pacific Magazine News, 17 October

Consistency call in courts - Post-Courier (PNG), 15 October

Judge wants leak probe: Fa: HIGH Court Judge Justice Gerard Winter did not accuse Police Commissioner Esala Teleni of any wrongdoing, the Fiji Law Society said yesterday. more... - Fiji Times, 12 October

Solomons MPs cleared of riot charges > - Radio Australia News, 12 October

DPP lawyer sued - Fiji Times, 12 October

Military council in control: QC: THE President's appointment of the interim Government is a sham because the military council is in fact running the government, the ousted Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase's legal team argued yesterday. more... - Fiji Times, 12 October

Interim A-G makes Qarase threat claim:  Interim Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum yesterday accused ousted Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase's defence team of threatening the court. more... - Fiji Times, 12 October

Lawyer applies for stay order on judge’s ruling - Fiji Sun, 12 October

16/11 Group-trial starts in the Supreme Court : Nuku'alofa, Tonga: The group trial of seven men charged with 16/11 related offences started at the Nuku'alofa Supreme Court this morning - Matangi Tonga, 10 October

Pitcairn Defendant Awaits Appeal Verdict - NZ Herald, 10 October

Court rejects Kean bid on judge - Fiji Times, 10 October

Judge wants Teleni inquiry - Fiji Times, 10 October

Marianas Lawmakers Override Fitial On 6 Bills - Pacific Islands Report, 10 October

Tiny Tokelau Readies For New Independence Vote - Pacific Islands Report, 10 October

Palau chiefs see selection of staff as key for traditional court - RNZI News, 10 October

Solomons' riot inquiry issues suppression order after allegations by witness - RNZI News, 10 October

Fiji's Attorney General doubts any effect from police chief questioning neutrality of judges - RNZI News, 10 October

Solomon Islands: 2007 Article IV Consultation (International Monetary Fund) - Pacific Islands Report, 10 October

American Samoa Future Political Status Report, Jan. 2, 2007 (Future Political Status Study Commission) - Pacific Islands Report, 10 October

More drug offenders get jail time - Tonga Now, 9 October

Political Reform set for 2010 - Tonga Now, 5 October

All well with Law Society: THERE is no division in the Fiji Law Society, says former society president Devanesh Sharma. more... - Fiji Times, 1 October

James Plasman Named To High Court : An American attorney with nearly 30 years of legal experience in the Marshall Islands will replace a departing Australian judge on the nation’s High... - Pacific Magazine News, 1 October

New GCC likely by year's end: THE new-look Great Council of Chiefs could possibly be formed by the end of the year, says interim Fijian Affairs Minister Ratu Epeli Ganilau, once the President and the interim Cabinet has had a chance to view the report of the GCC taskforce. more... Fiji Times, 1 October

Niue to discuss bill to restrict tobacco use - RNZI, 1 October

Judge shortage worries Society : There is a shortage of judges in the western division. The shortage of judges was raised by a member of the Fiji Law Society in its Annual General Meeting at Warwick in the weekend. Prominent Lawyer Dr Samsu Sahu Khan said there ws lack of judges a..... - Fiji Sun, 1 October

from PacLII

from Emalus Campus Library

New articles index for Pacific Law Journals Index:

New Items of interest:

Corrin, Jennifer & Don Paterson. Introduction to South Pacific Law. 2nd ed. Routledge-Cavendish, 2007.

Tulafono a Tokelau 2006-2007 : Legislation roll book : a collection of the legislation of Tokelau for 2006-2007. Tokelau: Manulele Tokelau, 2007.

The Cook Islands Laws : a finding list 2007.  Compiled by A H Angelo and Nicola Scott. Wellington : Victoria University of Wellington, 2007

McSporran, Peter H. Nauru : the Constitution. Henley Beach, S. Aust. : Seaview Press, 2007.

September 2007

From Various Media Sources / PacLII / Emalus Campus Library / Pacific Law Journal Index see also Pacific Law Blog archive

Blogs

from  Media Sources -

Pacific countries make mixed debut in Transparency's anti-corruption survey. - RNZI News, 28 September

FICAC with own set of legal eagles - Fiji Times, 28 September

Two Relieved 16/11 Offenders Receive Full Suspended Sentences - Tonga Now, 28 September

U.S. Attorney Seeks Nuke Compensation For Marshalls - Pacific Islands Report, 28 September

Solomon Islands Show Poorly In Corruption Index - Pacific Islands Report, 28 September

Rights commissioner to counter coup report - Fiji Sun, 28 September

More MPs involve in riot: witness - Solomon Star, 27 September

Cocaine sentencing adjourned again - Samoa Observer, 27 September

16/11 Group Jury Cases Set to Begin - Tonga Now, 27 September

Adult Diversion Program Underway - Tonga Now, 27 September

Commission of Inquiry into March 3 riots was biased, says Vanuatu police commander - RNZI, 26 September

Sorovakatini cops jail term : PRINCIPAL Accounts Officer for the Agriculture Ministry, Suliasi Sorovakatini, who was implicated and charged in connection to the multi-million agriculture scam was sentenced this morning by High Court Judge, Justice Gerard Winters. more... - Fiji Times, 26 September

Survey finds strong support for RAMSI - Solomon Star, 26 September

MP’s 20 month jail term quashed - Solomon Star, 25 September

Tonga Judiciary introduces Mediation Procedure - Matangi Tonga, 24 September

Reconstituted Fiji Supreme Court to sit in 2008 - RNZI, 24 September

Moti Inquiry Exposes ‘Deep Seated Corruption’ - Pacific Islands Report, 24 September

Pacific Partners Stung By Sogavare Comment On RAMSI - Pacific Islands Report, 24 September

Justice Sevua warns private lawyer against 'judge-hopping' - The National (PNG), 25 September

Lal sounds warning against abrogation - Fiji Times, 22 September

Cooks Crown Law clarifies beach access question - RNZI, 21 September

Report: Honiara Riot Planned By Leaders - Pacific Islands Report, 21 September

Vanuatu Commission of Inquiry raises questions of security capability - RNZI, 21 September

Fiji's President appoints tribunal for suspended Chief Justice - RNZI, 21 September

Inquiry Into April 2006 Civil Unrest In Honiara (Commission Of Inquiry Into The Civil Unrest In Honiara)

A different kind of justice: A magistrate believes community corrections could reduce social problems created by sending people to prison. more... - Fiji Times, 20 September

Defamation – Excerpts from CJ Ford’s Address to the Tonga Media Council - Tonga Now, 20 September

UN representative raises issue of judges - Fiji Times, 19 September

Judge threatens petitioner - The National (PNG), 19 September

16/11 offender may be included in adult diversion program - Tonga Now, 18 September

Seven years jail for policeman who violated woman in cell - Matangi Tonga, 17 September

13 September 2007 - The General Assembly today adopted a landmark declaration outlining the rights of the world's estimated 370 million indigenous people and outlawing discrimination against them - a move that followed more than two decades of debate. The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples has been approved after 143 Member States voted in favour, 11 abstained and four - Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United States - voted against the text. More details at http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=23794&Cr=indigenous&Cr1=#

Clean-up heads for magistrate's court: AN inquiry to weed out Fiji's magistracy of corruption, inefficiency and other malpractices is expected to improve the standard and services of the lower courts to the public. more... - Fiji Times, 17 September

Iloilo to name tribunal team: THE President, Ratu Josefa Iloilo, will appoint a tribunal from a list of names submitted to him to hear the case of suspended Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki. more... - Fiji Times, 17 September

Dr Lal: FHRC report on coup flawed - Fiji Times, 13 September

FHRC awaiting inquiry responses : THE Fiji Human Rights Commission is awaiting responses from the interim Government, the Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanu (SDL) Party and Fiji Labour Party on the findings of the inquiry team into the 2006 national election before it makes a public statement on the report. more... - Fiji Times, 13 September

Court: No to third party - Fiji Times, 13 September

Prison service looks at ways to improve - Fiji Times, 13 September

Report gag bid to protect egos: Judge - Post Courier (PNG), 13 September

Shameem not needed: QC : STATE lawyers yesterday objected to the Fiji Human Rights Commission director Doctor Shaista Shameem's application to be a party to the court case in which ousted Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase has challenged the interim administration's existence. more... - Fiji Times, 12 September

Wife killer is sentenced - Post-Courier (PNG), 12 September

Judge sees red over time wasting - The National (PNG), 12 September

House amends Criminal Act and passes other bills : Nuku'alofa, Tonga: Despite rumours that parliament was going to be closed on August 31 the members settled down to debate on some of the bills that had previously had their first reading, and two that had their first reading that morning - a Bill to Amend the Criminal Act and the other to terminate an act that deals with the promotion and the payment of gratitude to civil servants. - Matangi Tonga, 10 September

People’s Representative Appears in Court for Homicide-related Charges - Tonga Now, 10 September

‘Constitutional crisis looming’ - Post-Courier (PNG), 10 September

Fiji Law Society names Tevita Fa as Legal Practitioner of 2006 - RNZI News, 10 September

Suit questioning NMI policy versus IRs with absentee spouses dismissed : The federal court has dismissed without finality a lawsuit that questioned the CNMI government's policy to go after people who have Immediate Relative status, but whose sponsoring spouses have departed the Commonwealth. ....full story  - Saipan Tribune, 10 September

Crown withdraws six charges against PRs - Matangi Tonga, 7 September

Fiji State Of Emergency Re-Imposed - Pacific Magazine News, 6 September

'State a threat to rule of law' : GOVERNMENT interference in the legal system has undermined the rule of law in Fiji, says Law Council of Australia president Tim Bugg. more... - Fiji Times, 6 September

Moti report ‘lost’ - Post-Courier (PNG), 6 September

Malaysia judges join Bench - Fiji Times, 5 September

Appeal hearings set for Sept 26 - Solomon Star, 5 September

Parliament Passes Act to Repeal Industrial Incentives Act - Tonga Now, 5 September

Inquiry report contains misconceptions : George - Solomon Star, 5 September

South Pacific to bolster justice systems - Samoa Observer, 4 September

Tribunal will still probe Fatiaki: A-G - Fiji Times, 4 September

Vanuatu Ombudsman's probe into Lands Minister's dealings near completion - RNZI News, 3 September

Appeal judges resign over Gates' actions : Justices of Appeal of the Fiji Court of Appeal, Justices Ian Barker, Anthony Ford, Bruce McPherson, Peter Penlington, Robert Smellie and Sir Thomas Eichelbaum have tendered their resignations to the President of the Republic. more... - Fiji Times, 3 September

Adoption of federal system could be detrimental to Solomon Islands says academic - RNZI news, 3 September

Tonga Lawmakers Mull Conflicting Reform Petitions -Tonga Now, 1 September

from PacLII

from Emalus Campus Library

New articles index for Pacific Law Journals Index:

New Items of interest:

Tulafono a Tokelau 2006-2007 : Legislation roll book : a collection of the legislation of Tokelau for 2006-2007. Tokelau: Manulele Tokelau, 2007.

The Cook Islands Laws : a finding list 2007.  Compiled by A H Angelo and Nicola Scott. Wellington : Victoria University of Wellington, 2007

McSporran, Peter H. Nauru : the Constitution. Henley Beach, S. Aust. : Seaview Press, 2007.

  Niue legislation supplement 2006. Wellington : Faculty of Law, Victoria University of Wellington, 2007

 Niue laws : legislation as at December 2006. Wellington : Faculty of Law, Victoria University of Wellington, 2006. 4 vols. 

August 2007

From Various Media Sources / PacLII / Emalus Campus Library / Pacific Law Journal Index see also Pacific Law Blog archive

Blogs

The continuing Fijian trauma - Online Opinion : Australia's e-journal of social and political debate, 8 August

Stuck in Fiji m.u.d. blog: http://stuckinfijimud.blogspot.com/2007/08/doctoring-truth-across-great-divide-of.html

from  Media Sources

Sogavare: I’ll Take Australia To International Court - Pacific Islands Report, 28 August

Blaze guts judge's home - Fiji Times, 27 August

Keke not guilty over Kwaio men - Solomon Star, 27 August

Report: Land Court vital - The National (PNG), 27 August

Sentencings in the Supreme Court this Week - Tonga Now, 27 August

Nauru government returned in Saturday's election - RNZI, 27 August

Society: There is nothing wrong with local judges : THERE is nothing wrong with local judges sitting in the Fiji Court of Appeal session, says the Fiji Law Society. more... - Fiji Times, 25 August

Justice Byrnes to answer queries (on Court of Appeal) - Fiji Times, 24 August

State lawyer ordered to stop engaging private legal forms - The National (PNG), 24 August

Samoa launches free legal service - RNZI, 24 August

Simple law to help villages - Samoa Observer, 23 August

State wants lawyer stopped - Fiji Times, 23 August

Judges yet to be named for court - Fiji Times, 23 August

Fatiaki tribunal to proceed : THE State will proceed with the setting up of a tribunal to investigate allegations against suspended Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki despite legal action being taken against it. more... - Fiji Times, 23 August

Kiribati president retains seat in elections > - Radio Australia News, 23 August

Bar Association wants Moti out - Solomon Star, 23 August

TI Solomons calls latest law project against NGOs nonsense - RNZI News, 23 August

Juvenile facility being investigated for the Cook Islands - RNZI, 22 August

Call to change child abuse laws - Post-Courier (PNG), 22 August

Suspended Fiji Judge Sues President, Prime Minister - Pacific Islands Report, 21 August

Bill allows prisoners to go on weekends - Solomon Star, 21 August

Lawyers want former Chief Justice back : SOME 102 members of the Fiji Law Society signed a petition against the suspension of former Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki. more... - Fiji Times, 20 August

Moti withdraws court cases on motion - Solomon Star, 20 August

Former Marshall Islands Chief Justice Lanham Dies - Pacific Magazine, 19 August

Amet slams judges - The National (PNG), 17 August

Fiji's FICAC has no power to prosecute criminal cases - RNZI News, 17 August

Dates for validity cases set (Moti Inquiry) - The National (PNG), 17 August

Judge sets date for Motigate - Post-Courier (PNG), 16 August

Fiji Human Rights Commission appoints Suva-based lawyer to investigate 2006 elections - RNZI News, 15 August

Bainimarama announces election date - Islands Business, 15 August

Opposition seeks to stop court actions - Solomon Star, 15 August

Lawyers to petition President : A Petition signed by a group of lawyers calling on the President, Ratu Josefa Iloilo, to reinstate suspended Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki, is expected to be handed to Government House this morning. more... - Fiji Times, 14 August

Sacked GCC members seek redress in court - Fiji Times, 14 August

2000 coup compensation case deferred- Fiji Live, 14 August

Forum to Commission Study on Traditional Knowledge,IPR - Tonga Now, 14 August

It’s Somare! : SIR Michael Somare yesterday retained the Prime Minister’s post after Parliament voted 86-21 to give him the top job - Post-Courier (PNG), 14 August

Dr Mann’s push for a judicial review to be decided soon - The National (PNG), 14 August

Afeau’s sacking lawful: Court - Solomon Star, 13 August

Final countdown (new government) - Post-Courier (PNG), 13 August

Samoa's prison punishment cell closed after Supreme Court ruling - RNZI, 12 August

Seven years jail for a ringleader of Tonga's 16/11 mayhem - Matangi Tonga, 12 August

Somare tipped to be returned as PM in PNG today - RNZI, 12 August

Pacific States Urged To Join International Criminal Court - Pacific Magazine News, 10 August

Mum gets life term for newborn's death : A MOTHER who was convicted of killing her newborn in July 2004 has been sentenced to mandatory life imprisonment. more... - Fiji Times, 10 August

Sogavare, Moti Move To Block No-Confidence Motion - Pacific Islands Report, 10 August

Fiji Regime To Whittle Chief’s Council - Pacific Islands Report, 10 August

Court ruling expected shortly on whether PNG leader’s appointment was outside party rules - RNZI, 10 August

FICAC ends probe on Fatiaki : The Fiji Islands Commission against Corruption has completed its investigation into allegations against suspended chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki ... more - Fiji Live, 9 August

Fewer members likely in new look GCC : Fiji's Great Council of Chiefs will have fewer members and new faces as part of major changes being looked at by the interim Government ... more - Fiji Live, 9 August

Judge's accusations troubling: magistrates - Solomon Star, 9 August

Solomons PM seeks court ruling to thwart no confidence vote - RNZI, 9 August

Somare challenged - Post-Courier (PNG), 9 August

''GCC free to return to court'' : Former members of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) are free to go back to court for a legal intepretation of the revocation of the Regulation to suspend the GCC and its membership. more... - Fiji Times, 8 August

Government re-writes companies laws - Solomon Star, 8 August

Parliament launch website - Solomon Star, 8 August

Pacific Nations To Collaborate On Prisons - Pacific Islands Report, 8 August

(Prison practices) Inhumane - Samoa Observer, 7 August

U.S. Court Dismisses Bikini Atoll Lawsuit - Pacific Islands Report, 7 August

Conference discusses Pacific ways of dealing with offenders - Solomon Star, 7 August

Former Vanuatu Lawmaker Arrested For Fraud - Pacific Islands Report, 7 August

I'll challenge FICAC: lawyer - Fiji Times, 7 August

Media at fault, lawyer says - Fiji Times, 7 August

Police round up nurses : About 15 nurses were rounded up by police a short while ago and taken away, for demonstrating outside Government Buildings. more... - Fiji Times, 7 August

Frustrated Fiji public sector unions end strike - RNZI, 7 August

Court stays retirement age decision : The public sector unions have claimed victory in the High Court today with the ruling that the interim Government's decision to lower the retirement age be stayed ... more - Fiji Live, 7 August

Court orders suppression of identities - Solomon Star, 7 August

NA invited to form govt - Post-Courier (PNG), 7 August

Lawyer: Media created GCC confusion : A Legal representative of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) says there is no confusion in the understanding between his client and the interim Government on the revocation of the suspension of the GCC and its membership. more... - Fiji Times, 6 August

Confusion Reigns As Fiji Chiefs Council Reinstated - Pacific Islands Report, 6 August

Marau 5 amnesty still not set - Solomon Star, 6 August

Sir Michael Somare To Head Next PNG Government : Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare will be invited by the governor general today to form Papua New Guineas next government Electoral Commissioner Andrew... - RNZI, 6 August

MoA to govern - The National (PNG), 6 August

Supreme Court urged to speed up Yali case - The National (PNG), 6 August

Senate legal counsel: Open Gov't Act to burden judiciary : SENATE legal counsel Mike Ernest says subjecting the Legislature to the Open Government Act may further burden the judicial branch...(Full Story) - Marianas Variety, 6 August

Former Ministry of Health Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Lolofie Taulealeausumai Dr Eti Enosa, has been told the investigation of his complaint of unfair suspension laid with the Ombudsman’s office has been completed. .... View Article - Samoa Observer, 5 August

Strike will not work, says Fiji PM : Fiji's interim Prime Minister says the strike by four public sector unions will not work as the military-backed interim regime "has it covered" ... more - Fiji Live, 3 August

Govt to contract out public services : The Fiji Government has sought private contractors to provide "public services" as four of Fiji's public sector unions continue their strike ... more - Fiji Live, 3 August

4,000 Public Workers Go On Strike In Fiji - Pacific Islands Report, 2 August

Moti report goes online - Post-Courier (PNG), 2 August

Keeping the spirit of Integrity Laws : The Integrity Laws on Political Parties and Candidates is a relatively new instrument that still remains to be tested in many ways, having come into play since the 2002 national election - The National (PNG), 2 August

Top shots in Simbu held for ‘drinking’ :   -TWO high profile members of the judiciary were held for allegedly consuming alcohol in the Simbu province, when there was a ban on the trade of alcohol - The National (PNG), 3 August

Bartlett now free of riot charges - Solomon Star, 2 August

PM denounces Civil Society letter - Solomon Star, 2 August

Lawyers withdraw from agriculture scam trial : Defence lawyers in the ongoing agriculture scam trial have withdrawn their services following an error in processing documents relating to the facts of the case ... more - Fiji Live, 1 August

Court stays proceedings on Heffernan - Fiji Live, 1 August

Court quashes decision (re misconduct by former A-G) - The National (PNG), 1 August

GAO Releases Report On U.S. Funding To Vanuatu : U.S. Government Accountability Office - Pacific Islands Report, 1 August

Judge Fights Juvenile Crime With Peer Pressure : Palau Senior Justice of Common Pleas Honora Rudimch has been sentencing juvenile offenders to an unusual punishment—public exposure to peer pressure... - Pacific Magazine News, 1 August

from PacLII

from Emalus Campus Library

New articles index for Pacific Law Journals Index:

July 2007

From Various Media Sources / PacLII / Emalus Campus Library / Pacific Law Journal Index see also Pacific Law Blog archive

Blogs

Fiji Human Rights Watch: http://fijihumanrightswatch.blogspot.com/

Fiji's laws: the baby that noone wants - Intelligentsiya blog, 25 July

from  Media Sources

Judge Byrne defends posting - Fiji Times, 31 July

Judge backs peer election for chief justice - Saipan Tribune, 27 July

Christchurch lawyer outlines his role in Fiji - The Press, NZ, 26 July

Jury acquits 75 year old man of sedition - Matangi Tonga, 26 July

Law drafting capacity building for Pacific Island countries - Tonga Now, 25 July

Pryde is interim S-G - Fiji Times, 24 July

Times to put things in their proper perspective (opening remarks from Fiji Law Society Conference) - Fiji Times, 23 July

Give graduates a chance : Sharma - Fiji Times, 23 July

Devanesh lets go the reins - Fiji Times, 23 July

Vanuatu court orders taboo be removed from public building - RNZI, 23 July

Society says laws needed change - Fiji Times, 22 July

Lawyers asleep while judiciary raped: Leung - Fiji Live, 21 July

Personal attacks launched in heated debate (at Fiji Law Society Conference) - Fiji Live, 21 July

Regime should get new A-G : Draunidalo - Fiji Live, 20 July

Habitual offender receives no mercy from the court - Fiji Times, 20 July

Bring back CJ Fatiaki, says Rt Joni, Sharma :Calls have been made for the reinstatement of the suspended Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki during the meeting of Fiji's lawyers today. ... more - Fiji Live, 20 July

Police unprepared: April unrest report - Solomon Star, 20 July

Kemakeza back in court, waits for trial - Solomon Star, 20 July

Judge blasts husband over inhuman treatment - The National (PNG). 20 July

Prosecutors’ fate to be decided today - The National (PNG), 20 July

Retired Calif. judge is new Labor counsel - Saipan Tribune, 20 July

American Samoa Bill Changes Matai Criteria - Pacific Islands Report, 20 July

Record number for lawyers meet: MORE than 200 people are expected to attend this year's Fiji Law Society Conference, which gets under way at Nadi tomorrow. more... - Fiji Times, 19 July

Fono’s inquiry hearing barred - Solomon Star, 19 July

Five PR's plead not guilty to 16/11 charges at Nuku'alofa Supreme Court - Matangi Tonga, 18 July

Ali: Shameem posting illegal - Fiji Times, 18 July

Other Judges ‘qualify’ for Fiji : High Court judges from Commonwealth countries other than Australia and New Zealand can now be appointed to practice in Fiji ... more - Fiji Live, 18 July

Ranjit lawyer lashes out at allegations - Solomon Star, 18 July

Former Manu Samoa player becomes judge - RNZI, 18 July

People’s Representatives’ Trial to take Around 3-months - Tonga Now, 18 July

Leung: Stand up for people : FORMER Fiji Law Society president Graham Leung has called on the judiciary to stand up for the people of Fiji. more... - Fiji Times 17 July

Lawyers defer Fatiaki petition - Fiji Times, 17 July

GG ill advised says Fono (on appointment of new Ombudsman) - Solomon Star, 17 July

Escaping jail (young offenders) - Samoa Observer, 15 July

Dr Shameem appointed Ombudsman: FIJI Human Rights Commission Director Dr Shaista Shameem has been named the country's new Ombudsman. more... - Fiji Times, 16 July

CJ tribunal to be announced in 60 days: The announcement of a tribunal to hear allegations against Fiji’s former Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki has been given an extension of ... more - Fiji Live, 16 July

Fatiaki tribunal by Monday: THE public should know by Monday the details of the tribunal that will handle suspended Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki's case. more... - Fiji Times, 13 July

Teacher appeals against sentence (for rape of student) - Fiji Times, 13 July

Sale's case awaits ruling to continue or close - Solomon Star, 13 July

DPP mum on murder cases: THE office of the Director of the Public Prosecutions has declined to say whether charges will be laid in the case of a man allegedly beaten to death while in police custody, according to Radio New Zealand. more... - Fiji Times, 12 July

Former Solomons DPP says Moti move unconstitutional - Radio Australia, 12 July

Talks fail to avert strike plan : A meeting with the interim Minister for Public Service today has failed to avert the strike plan by members of the Fiji Islands Council of Trade Unions ... more - Fiji Live, 12 July

A-G to announce CJ tribunal on deadline - Fiji Live, 12 July

Top lawyer to face legal action - Fiji Live, 12 July

Andresen to mount legal challenge (re Moti) - Solomon Star, 12 July

A Range Of Reactions To Moti Swearing-In - Pacific Magazine News, 12 July

New Solomons Attorney General Vows Revenge - Pacific Islands Report, 12 July

Strike averted: TWO major public sector unions withdrew their notices of strike yesterday after the interim government agreed to progressively reinstate the five per cent pay cut and leave the courts to decide whether the retirement age should be reduced to 55 years. more... - Fiji Times, 11 July

Mayor delighted with court decision - Fiji Times, 11 July

A-G sues Law Society deputy head - Fiji Live, 11 July

Court dismisses Giru’s claims with costs - The National (PNG), 11 July 

Son Appears in Court after Father Files Theft Charge against Him - Tonga Now, 11 July

Moti sworn in as Solomons Attorney General - Radio Australia, 10 July

Unanimous Conviction by Jury of 16/11 Offender in the Supreme Court - Tonga Now, 10 July

Fugitive To Be Sworn In As Solomons Top Attorney - Pacific Islands Report, 10 July

Moti still suspended, says Solomons Public Service Commission - RNZI, 10 July

Shameem in line for senior legal office : FIJI Human Rights Commission director Doctor Shaista Shameem has reportedly been earmarked to be Fiji's next Ombudsman. more... - Fiji Times, 9 July

PNG: Court affirms Digicel licence - Islands Business, 7 July

Evidence vanishes at police headquarters - Samoa Observer, 6 July

High Court asked to disqualify magistrate - Fiji Times, 6 July

Forum group discusses Fiji election - Fiji Live, 6 July

Appointment of the Public Service Commissioners is legal and binding - Tonga Now, 6 July

16/11 related trials continue in Supreme Court - Tonga Now, 6 July

PNG Court Rejects Bid To Quash Telecom Competitor - Pacific Islands Report, 6 July

Former Solomons PM jailed on embezzlement conviction - RNZI, 5 July

Tribunal to probe Fatiaki allegations : A TRIBUNAL to investigate allegations against Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki would be appointed by July 15, said interim Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. more... - Fiji Times, 5 July

(Solomon Islands Bar Association President) Lawyer sacked - Solomon Star, 4 July

Fiji widens scope for Judges - Fiji Live, 4 July

Senior officer replaces Teleni : A SENIOR military officer has been appointed the Deputy Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption. more... - Fiji Times, 4 July

Coups cost 12 years of growth - Fiji Times, 4 July

Fiji allows judges from all Commonwealth nations - Radio Australia, 4 July

Wanted : Lawmakers at Chamber's meeting : Calling on all CNMI lawmakers. The Saipan Chamber of Commerce is inviting members of the Legislature and other community leaders to attend and listen to its presentation on the potential ill effects of a pending local labor reform bill.....full story - Saipan Tribune, 4 July

Latest from the Magistrates Court - Monday 02 July 2007 - Tonga Now, 4 July

Trade Ministers Meet In Vanuatu In August: (Pacific Islands Forum)Trade Ministers from the 16-member Pacific Islands Forum will meet in Port Vila Vanuatu 2 – 3 August to discuss further steps to... - Pacific Magazine News, 4 July

Early return of suspended CJ in doubt - Fiji Live, 3 July

Interim regime better than elected govt: Academic - Fiji Live, 3 July

Law firm referred to PNG Law Society - The National (PNG), 3 July

Committal Court important: Mogish - The National (PNG), 3 July

Dr Brij Lal's paper on the Fiji Coup - "'Anxiety, uncertainty, and fear in our land' : Fiji's road to Military Coup, 2006" - Fiji Live, 2 July

Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi's paper on the Fiji Coup - "Mythic constitutionalism : whither Fiji's course in June, 2007?" - Fiji Live, 2 July

Defend judiciary, Ali tells lawyers - Fiji Times, 2 July

from PacLII

from Emalus Campus Library

New articles index for Pacific Law Journals Index:

Last updated 31 July 2007

June 2007

Pacific Islands Report / Other Media Sources / PacLII / Emalus Campus Library / Pacific Law Journal Index see also Pacific Law Blog archive

from Pacific Islands Report

Uncertainty Undermines PNG Judicial System - 28 June

Pacific Lawmakers Gather In Pago Pago - 22 June

Son Named Samoa Malietoa Despite Challenge - 15 June

Malietoa’s Son Nominated As Samoan Head Of State  - 13 June

Tonga Passes Dual Citizenship Bill - 13 June

Aussie Police Help In Probe Of Vanuatu Arson - 12 June

Fiji Government Denounces Ruling On Qarase - 12 June

PNG’s Somare Chided For Hiding Inquiry Report - 8 June

Forum Report: Fiji Ready For Elections Next Year - 8 June

Cooks Lawmakers Give Themselves Hefty Raises - 8 June

UN Meeting In Suva To Address Pacific Unemployment - 8 June

Report: Documenting The Treatment Of Detainees And Prisoners By Security Forces In The Kingdom Of Tonga, May 2007
Community Para-Legal Taskforce on Human Rights (May 2007)

Dual Citizenship Bill Awaits Tongan Lawmakers - 1 June

Defamation Suit Against Saipan Newspaper Dismissed - 1 June

from Other Media Sources

Lawyers want judge to quit : A GROUP of lawyers have called for the removal of the acting Chief Justice Anthony Gates and the reinstatement to the position of Justice Daniel Fatiaki. more... - Fiji Times, 29 June

Lawyers want Fatiaki back as CJ - Fiji Live, 29 June

Gates silent on petition : FIJI's acting Chief Justice Anthony Gates has refused to comment on a petition from lawyers calling for his resignation and the reinstatement of suspended Chief Justice, Daniel Fatiaki. more... - Fiji Times, 29 June

Ward: No power to intervene - Fiji Times, 29 June

Expat judge for judicial review - Fiji Times, 29 June

GCC case set for August : The hearing of the litigation contesting the suspension of Fiji’s Great Council of Chiefs will begin on August 3 in the High Court in Suva ... more - Fiji Live, 29 June

Lawyer fears for future of judiciary : Australia-based lawyer John Cameron says he fears for the future of Fiji’s Appeals court ... more - Fiji Live, 29 June

12-year-old jailed - PNG Post-Courier, 29 June

Lecturing’ lawyer gets a reprimand - The National (PNG), 28 June

A-G: Magistracy study soon - Fiji Times, 28 June

Lawyer will ask DPP to throw out chief's case - Fiji Times, 28 June

Lawyers want Fatiaki back as CJ : Senior Fiji lawyers are petitioning Fiji’s President, calling for the immediate re-instatement of former Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki ... more - Fiji LIve, 28 June

Ward steps aside in Heffernan case: The President of the Fiji Court of Appeal has stepped aside from presiding over an appeals case by activist Angie Heffernan, who is challenging ... more - Fiji Live, 28 June

Drug Offenders Join Drug & Alcohol Abuse program voluntarily - Tonga Now, 28 June

Repeat Offender Needs Alternative Form of Rehabilitation Lawyer Tells Magistrate - Tonga Now, 28 June

Court clears law firm : THE High Court has ruled there is no legally binding order which can stop law firm Munro Leys against representing the Suva City Council. more... - Fiji Times, 27 June

Deported lawyer claims judicial interference : Australia-based lawyer Dr John Cameron is claiming that his deportation from Fiji was a direct interference in the workings of Fiji's judiciary ... more - Fiji Live, 27 June

Leave judiciary alone: Draunidalo : The judiciary must be left alone and away from criticisms, says Fiji Law Society Vice-President Tupou Draunidalo ... more - Fiji Live, 27 June

Changes to RAMSI facilitation law possible but not before next year - RNZI, 27 June

Court orders re-trial for chief : NATASIRI high chief Ratu Inoke Takiveikata, jailed for life in 2004 on three counts of incitement to mutiny and one count of aiding soldiers in an act of mutiny, is to face a fresh trial. more... - Fiji Times, 26 June

Court finds judge wrong : A CONVICTION for contempt of court brought against a business executive has been overturned by the Fiji Court of Appeal. more... - Fiji Times, 26 June

Appeals president thanks fellow justices - Fiji Times, 26 June

Justice Ward says farewell to Fiji judiciary - Fiji Live, 26 June

Constitutional redress for Silatolu : The Fiji Court of Appeal yesterday quashed an order by the High Court that prevented treason convict Timoci Silatolu from seeking constitutional redress on his conviction ... more - Fiji LIve, 26 June

Appeals court rules in Rabuka's favour : The Fiji Court of Appeal today dismissed an appeal against the acquittal of former Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka who was tried and found not guilty for inciting mutiny in 2000 ... more - Fiji Live, 26 June

A-Gs office raided - Solomon Star, 25 June

16/11 offender appears in court on seven charges - Tonga Now, 25 June

Fiji court decision pivotal in finding a way forward for the country says academic - RNZI, 25 June

Bainimarama vows to weed out corruption : Fiji’s interim Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama believes the country can be free of corruption if his regime is given sufficient time to prove its worth ... more - Fiji Live, 25 June

President of Bar Association in Solomons challenges police raid on his offices - RNZI, 24 June

No reconciliation without 16/11 confession, PM tells PRs : Nuku'alofa, Tonga: There will be no reconciliation until there is a confession, and a submission for wrong doing by those who initiated the destruction of November 16, the Prime Minister told parliament on Monday. However, 'Akilisi Pohiva expressed his fear that... - Matangi Tonga, 23 June

Police tackle transnational crimes in Apia workshop : A workshop to help equip law enforcement officers with skills to detect, dismantle and disrupt organised transnational crime syndicates is being held in Apia this week - Samoa Observer, 21 June

Appeal judge hears activist's case in-chambers - Fiji Times, 22 June

PNG deserves best in judiciary services: Bire - The National (PNG), 22 June

Tonga to take part in first Pacific Islands Legal Drafters Technical Forum - Tonga Now, 22 June

From the Courts – (Friday 22 June 2007) - Tonga Now, 22 June

More Cases Deferred in Magistrates Court - Tonga Now, 22 June

Review of  Solomons' RAMSI Taskforce nearly complete - RNZI, 22 June

Singh takes case to Supreme Court - Fiji Times, 21 June

Activists’ appeal discussed : The presiding of Angenette Heffernan’s appeal by Fiji Court of Appeal President Justice Gordon Ward was discussed when the case was called for mention in chambers this morning ... more - Fiji Live, 21 June

Constitution shows 'depth of vision', Speaker says - Samoa Observer, 17 June

Police accused in rape hearing - Samoa Observer, 17 June

Lawyer ordered out : FORMER deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Kevueli Tunidau was directed to withdraw from an appeal filed against the life sentence in a murder case. more... - Fiji Times, 20 June

Legals have it out in court - Fiji Times, 20 June

Judge shopping case in Appeal - Fiji Times, 20 June

Fiji Cabinet 'agrees' to 2009 election : Fiji's Cabinet has agreed in principle that a parliamentary election in Fiji could be held in the first quarter of 2009 ... more - Fiji Live, 20 June

From the Courts – Tuesday 19th June 2007 - Tonga Now, 19 June

Cook Islands police criticised for treatment of juvenile offenders - RNZI, 19 June

Date set for Rabuka ruling : THE Fiji Court of Appeal will deliver its judgment next Monday on the State's appeal against the High Court ruling that former Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is not guilty of inciting mutiny. more... - Fiji Times, 19 June

Fiji must meet international conditions: Lal : THE country does not have the free hand to choose when it is ready to return to parliamentary democracy, says academic Doctor Brij Lal. more... - Fiji Times, 19 June

Constitutional congress launched - Solomon Star, 18 June

‘Graft legalised’ : THE Ombudsman Commission has raised concerns over what it says is a frightening aspect of corruption where official institutions and systems are being used to legitimise corruption - Post-Courier, PNG, 18 June

Wewak court officials arrested for contempt - The National, PNG, 18 June

Income Tax Act Passed – completes Revenue Reform - Tonga Now, 18 June

Another motion of no-confidence against Vanuatu PM withdrawn - RNZI , 18 June

Stay out, says Interim PM : THE international community was told in no uncertain terms by interim Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama yesterday to stay out of his regime's way if they do not support his roadmap to parliamentary democracy. more... - Fiji Times, 18 June

Tonga State Of Emergency Extended - Pacific Magazine News, 17 June

Stop judicial appointments, says lawyer : A LAWYER representing Fiji human rights activist Angie Heffernan, says the Judicial Services Commission should stop making appointments until a Chief Justice is appointed. more... - Fiji Times, 15 June

Review judiciary call a breach: Shameem - Fiji Times, 15 June

Couple testifies against acting Chief Justice - Fiji Times,15 June

High chief appeals life sentence- Fiji Live, 15 June

Court registry staff attacked over case record - The National (PNG), 15 June

Tonga modernises Customs and Tax Laws - Tonga Now, 15 June

Bestowal of Samoa's Malietoa paramount title to go ahead - RNZI, 15 June

House accepts dual citizenship for Tongans - Matangi Tonga, 14 June

RAMSI case man wants verdict - Solomon Star, 14 June

UN to act on lawyer status : THE United Nations Human Rights Commission has been urged to act and decide on the independence of lawyers and judges in Fiji. more... - Fiji Times, 14 June

Lawyer takes FICAC to court : THE Fiji Independent Commission against Corruption is a draconian organisation, says the lawyer who applied for injunction to bar the commission from arresting his client. more... - Fiji Times, 14 June

Court of Appeal hears Silatolu appeal - Fiji Times, 14 June

Vanuatu Coalition Ructions Over No-Confidence Move : (Radio New Zealand International) The Vanuaaku Pati has been forced to quit Vanuatu’s coalition government after it supported a planned motion of... - Pacific Magazine News, 13 June

Lawyers upset over pressure on judge - Fiji Live, 13 June

Malietoa title dispute in court - Samoa Observer - 13 June

From the Police Magistrate Court - Fasi (Tuesday 12 June 2007) - Tonga Now, 12 June

Tonga appoints new judge to help with 16/11 cases - Matangi Tonga, 12 June

Fiji in spotlight at UN meet : THE independence of lawyers and judges in Fiji following the 5 December coup was a concern raised by Australia and New Zealand at the fifth session of United Nations Human Rights Council, which opened in Geneva this week. more... - Fiji Times, 13 June

Angies case goes to Appeal: HUMAN rights fighter Angie Heffernan and the State have to submit their written arguments before July 3 so the Court of Appeal can decide if it can hear an appeal against a stay order. more... - Fiji Times, 13 June

Qarase is free to travel: Judge:  OUSTED Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase can travel to Suva after an order was granted by the High Court. more... Fiji Times, 12 June

NZ reacts to Ward termination call : Update: 10.30am THE decision by the interim attorney-general to call for the resignation of the president of Fiji's Court of Appeal has attracted international reaction of concern. more... - Fiji Times, 12 June

Academic: Judiciary being transformed : Update: 10.20am THE independence and neutrality of Fijis judiciary is being questioned after the interim attorney-general called for the resignation of the president of the Court of Appeal, Justice Gordon Ward. more... Fiji Times, 12 June

State lawyers jailed - The National (PNG), 12 June

Judge, lawyers discuss activist's appeal : Fiji Court of Appeal President Justice Gordon Ward today discussed the appeal brought by activist Angenette Heffernan against a stay order granted to the Fiji military ... more - Fiji Live, 12 June

A-G calls on judge to quit: FIJI Court of Appeal president Justice Gordon Ward has been asked to resign because he is alleged to have "compromised his position in the judiciary". more... - Fiji Times, 11 June

Shameem threatens to sue Leung: Fiji Human Rights Commission director Doctor Shaista Shameem is threatening legal action against Suva lawyer Graham Leung for comments he made against her at the LAWASIA conference in Hong Kong. more... - Fiji Times, 11 June

Takeover legality rests in court : The absence of a court decision on the legality of the December 5 military takeover should not affect the primary role of the Fiji Human Rights Commission, says the Citizens Constitutional Forum. more... - Fiji Times, 11 June