16 plead not guilty to sedition and inciting communal antagonism charge

Sixteen people from the Nadroga/Navosa district charged with one count each of sedition and one count each of inciting communal antagonism pleaded not guilty to both counts in the Lautoka High Court today.

The State has further remanded all 16 including Ratu Inoke Tasere, Jimi Koroibete, Seru Kunalagi, Adi Cuvu Gavidi Atama, Ulaiasi Rabua Tuivono, Peniasi Naqau, Semi Tanikili, Ratu Osea Bolawaqatabu, Ratu Tevita Khaikhainabokolawale Makutu, Mosese Navaci, Eroni Rikoriko, Alifereti Nakuinivou, Alifereti Gonewai, Raicula Rokovou, Adi Vasemaca Veikunekibulu Gonewai and Jorama Ratulevu.

The court heard that the Defence has sought an early trial date but was informed that the court has no available dates this year.

They are expected to appear again on the 7th of next month.

Seventy people have been charged in relation to military style training and attempting to form a Christian state in Ra and Nadroga/Navosa.