Court dismisses Nomane’s legal challenge, Tomuresia remains Opposition leader

Wednesday, 20 August 2025, 10:52 am

Leader of the Opposition Douglas Tomuresia. (File Picture)

The National Court has dismissed James Nomane's legal challenge against Douglas Tomuresia’s leadership of the Opposition, confirming Tomuresia as the Opposition leader.

The court's decision this morning brings an end to the internal leadership dispute within the Opposition ranks.

The controversy began earlier this month when Nomane challenged Tomuresia’s leadership, claiming he had the support of ten [10] out of the 18 opposition members.

Nomane argued in court that he should be declared as the legitimate leader of Opposition.

He also questioned Tomuresia’s standing, asserting that Tomuresia only had the backing of eight [8] members, while the majority supported him.

In response, Tomuresia contested the jurisdiction of the national court to hear such a dispute, citing constitutional concerns.

Presiding Judge John Carey acknowledged Tomuresia’s argument regarding jurisdiction as valid.

In his ruling this morning, justice Carey stated that the national court does not have the authority to hear constitutional matters related to leadership disputes within the Opposition.

He emphasized that such issues fall under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court, which is equipped to handle constitutional cases.

As a result, Judge Carey dismissed Nomane’s application, resulting in Douglas Tomuresia’s position as the official Opposition leader.