10 Sep 2007

Prominent Fiji chief charged with assaulting son of self-appointed prime minister

7:44 pm on 10 September 2007

A prominent Fiji high chief has appeared in the Suva High Court charged with assaulting the interim prime minister, Commodore Bainimarama's son.

Ratu Epenisa Cakobau has been charged with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and also disorderly conduct while in police custody later.

The court was told that Ratu Epenisa punched Ratu Meli Bainimarama, who is also a soldier, in a Suva night club last Saturday night.

Ratu Epenisa did not enter a plea but asked for more time to consult his lawyer.

He has been released on bail of 120-US dollars and will appear in court again on the 24th of September.

Earlier Ratu Epenisa had denied assaulting anyone to the media.

The interim prime minister, Commodore Bainimarama, has told Radio Legend that Ratu Epenisa is not only targetting his family but also the military and should be brought to justice.

Commodore Bainimarama says there are a lot of lies coming out of some chiefs in Fiji and this is a wonderful example.