Former Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem are awaiting the verdict from the High Court today, as Chief Justice Justice Salesi Temo presides over the case.
Sayed-Khaiyum faces a charge of abuse of office, while Saneem is charged with receiving a corrupt benefit exceeding $55,000 in tax relief on his back pay. The legal teams representing the accused include Senior Defense Counsel Devanesh Sharma and lawyer Gul Fatima. Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Nancy Tikoisuva leads the prosecution, with the Supervisor of Elections, Ana Mataiciwa, as the complainant in the matter.
The allegations against Sayed-Khaiyum detail that he signed a Deed of Variation and Addendum between the Government and Saneem while serving as the Acting Prime Minister from June 30 to July 12, 2022. This action is claimed to have taken place without the necessary approvals from both the Constitutional Offices Commission and the President of Fiji.
Similarly, the charges against Saneem assert that between June 1 and July 31, 2022, he unlawfully requested and obtained tax benefits amounting to over $55,000 regarding his back pay.
The outcome of this case could have significant implications for both individuals and may resonate throughout the legal and political landscape in Fiji, reflecting the ongoing accountability in governance. As this trial unfolds, attention remains focused on the principles of transparency and integrity that are paramount in public office.