The absence of the lead counsel in a sedition matter called before the High Court in Lautoka was questioned by Justice Riyaz Hamza on Monday.
The court was told by defence counsel Aman Ravindra-Singh that the lead state counsel, Semi Babitu, had not appeared for the matter in the past five occasions.
Judge Hamza questioned Mr Babitu’s absence in a case of this nature, stating that while he was a busy counsel considering his seniority, he should at least show up for this sedition matter.
DPP counsel Alvin Singh appeared on behalf of Mr Babitu. Judge Hamza also reminded the state to keep proper records of all accused persons.
Two of the 26 accused persons did not appear in court and the defence counsel was informed to follow up with them or else a bench warrant would be issued.
The 24 men have been told to return to court for the pre-trial conference on July 4.
The trial proper has been set for November 1 to December 2.
The 26 accused all face a count each of sedition after being accused of conducting military-style training in Tavua in 2015.
