The trial of former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, along with ex-Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and former Health Minister Neil Sharma, has been rescheduled to Wednesday. This decision follows an objection raised by Sharma’s attorney, Wylie Clarke, regarding the admissibility of key documents from the Ministry of Health’s Tender Evaluation Committee, which are expected to be significant in the proceedings.
Justice Usaia Ratuvili has allowed a challenge to the admissibility of these minutes, based on Clarke’s argument that they constitute hearsay. He believes resolving this matter prior to the trial could streamline the process and enhance efficiency.
Counsel for Bainimarama and Sayed-Khaiyum, Devanesh Sharma, expressed that his clients are ready to proceed but are keenly interested in Clarke’s application regarding the documents. On the other hand, State Counsel Laisani Tabuakoro contested the objection, labeling it a strategic attempt to delay the trial. She pointed out that the defense has had access to these documents since 2024 and implied that they should have raised the issue sooner.
The court has mandated the State to respond to this objection by the end of the business day tomorrow, with a decision expected when the trial resumes on Wednesday. This latest development underscores the ongoing legal challenges faced by these notable political figures as they navigate through the complexities of their case. The outcome of the ruling on the admissibility of the documents could have substantial implications for the proceedings ahead.