A 28-year old unemployed man who allegedly murdered a former journalist has been given three weeks to secure a legal counsel.

Usaia Kilaverata appeared for the first time in the Suva High Court this morning.

He is alleged to have killed his partner Losana McGowan on the morning of Easter Saturday.

McGowan’s mother, extended family members and friends packed the high court to capacity as Kilaverata was produced in court.

Speaking through a court translator, Kilaverata says he has discussed his case with a lawyer whose name he has forgotten.

Justice Priyantha Fernando has further remanded Kilaverata in custody to reappear in court on May 7.