Kinoya Wife Killer to Know Fate on July 30
The High Court in Suva has set the sentencing date for a farmer who murdered his wife last December after a heated argument.
Fatai Peni, 53, of Kinoya in Nasinu, who slit his wife’s throat will be sentenced on July 30. He appeared before Judge Justice Daniel Goundar yesterday.
Peni had pleaded guilty to one count of murder. Prosecution said that on December 29, 2019, at his home in Kinoya, Peni murdered Apete Bale, 47.
In court yesterday, Peni’s daughter took the stand to give a character reference of her father. She said her father was a very supportive husband and father who prioritised their needs. She went on to say that he was loving and caring and a good man.
The accused’s daughter also told the court that he used to send around $300 to $400 every month to support the family. He too was actively involved in community work back in the village, she said.
She told the court that even though her late mother was a hardworking woman, she did not approve of her adulterous life.
She told the court her mother then resented her because she used to confront her about her new life. Peni’s daughter told the court that it was difficult for her to support her siblings alone after the death of her mother and their father incarcerated.
Legal Aid Commission lawyer, Mele Ratidara, told the court that Peni took full responsibility for his actions, is of good character, pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity, was remorseful and sought the court’s forgiveness.
Ms Ratidara also highlighted in court that Peni had been in remand for 197 days and sought leniency in the sentence.
State prosecutor, Sadaf Shameem told the court that the accused had breached the trust of his wife and the offence was a domestic violence case.
She told the court that Peni had no regard for the deceased’s life when she cried out for help. Peni was further remanded in custody until sentencing.