The judgment in the case against former Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and former Supervisor of Elections Mohamed Saneem has been postponed. Chief Justice Salesi Temo revealed during today’s court session that additional time is needed to reach a decision, noting that the ruling is not yet ready.
Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum faces allegations of abuse of office, while Mohamed Saneem is charged with receiving a corrupt benefit. The case revolves around accusations that, during his tenure as Prime Minister and Chair of the Constitutional Offices Commission in 2022, Sayed-Khaiyum executed a second Deed of Variation and Addendum. This agreement allegedly pertained to the decision to pay or waive extra taxes owed by Saneem related to a back pay process, made without the required approvals from the President or the Commission.
Furthermore, Saneem is accused of improperly seeking and obtaining a tax benefit, specifically a waiver of deductible tax relief that totaled $55,944.03 on his back pay, with assistance from Sayed-Khaiyum.
The court has indicated that it expects to deliver its judgment on March 30. Both parties are awaiting the outcome, which highlights ongoing concerns about the accountability of public officials and the integrity of financial management processes. The delay in the ruling serves as an important moment for the court to assess all evidence thoroughly, ensuring a fair path towards justice.