SECRET TRIAL THREATENS COOKS DEMOCRACY

PACIFIC ISLANDS REPORT

Pacific Islands Development Program/East-West Center
With Support From Center for Pacific Islands Studies/University of Hawai‘i

Editorial

SECRET TRIAL THREATENS COOKS DEMOCRACY

Cook Islands News

RAROTONGA, Cook Islands (March 28, 2008) – Cook Islands News believes the high-profile corruption case that started yesterday should not be held in secret.

We are strongly opposed to any form of suppression of names and evidence in the matter.

This is because there is extremely high public interest in it, one of three co-defendants has already been named in open court, and the case is about fraud and corruption in high public places.

It will be a landmark trial potentially involving about 100 witnesses.

We point out that the reason already given in court for suppression - to avoid public debate and comment - can be dealt with through the laws governing subjudice information and contempt of court.

In other words, the public, including media, will be prevented by law from discussion and comment once the court hearings begin. Only court proceedings can be reported.

The public of the Cook Islands has every right to know who is being charged with what and to be informed throughout the trial of the evidence that is presented.

The right to know is a democratic principle and a civil liberty which must not be denied.

Cook Islands News: http://www.cinews.co.ck/index.htm

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