Manasa Ulacake [Blue shirt]

A church pastor who is alleged to have raped a 16-year-old girl in Labasa earlier this year is expected to enter his plea next month.

Manasa Ulacake appeared before Judge Justice Daniel Goundar at the Labasa High Court today.

He is charged with one count of sexual assault, one count of abduction and two counts of rape.

He was to have taken his plea this morning.

However, State prosecutors say they have to clarify some issues with the complainant in regard to the consent aspect of the case.

The State wants to know if the complainant had consented to sex and if so – was it mutual or forced.

If the complainant had mutually consented to sex, then the charges will be amended to a lesser charge of defilement.

The case has been adjourned to March 5th for the plea.