The judgement in the case involving former Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and former Supervisor of Elections Mohamed Saneem has been postponed. During a court appearance today, Chief Justice Salesi Temo announced that he requires additional time to reach a decision, indicating that the ruling is not yet ready.
Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum is facing allegations of abuse of office, while Mohamed Saneem is charged with receiving a corrupt benefit. The case centers around claims that, while serving as Prime Minister and Chair of the Constitutional Offices Commission in 2022, Sayed-Khaiyum executed a second Deed of Variation and Addendum. This agreement purportedly involved the decision to pay or waive additional taxes owed by Saneem related to a back pay process, without the necessary approvals from the President or the Commission.
It is furthermore alleged that Saneem improperly sought and acquired a tax benefit, specifically the waiver of deductible tax relief amounting to $55,944.03 on his back pay, with Sayed-Khaiyum’s assistance.
The court is expected to deliver its judgement on March 30, leaving both parties in anticipation of the outcome. This case underscores ongoing concerns regarding accountability in public office and the integrity of the processes involved in managing public funds. The delayed judgement provides a critical opportunity for the court to thoroughly review all evidence before making a determination, an essential step in ensuring justice is served.