In Fiji, a significant legal case involving former Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem is unfolding, centered on allegations of abuse of office and corrupt practices. The case has captured public and governmental attention, highlighting issues of transparency and accountability.
A recent court session shed light on key developments. Mesake Dawai, Manager of Legal for Fiji’s Elections Office, testified that two critical Deeds of Variation (DoVs), which are central to the allegations, were signed by Sayed-Khaiyum while serving as Acting Prime Minister, not by former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama. Dawai expressed doubts about the legitimacy of these DoVs, pointing to identical dates but different signatures, raising questions about potential misconduct by Saneem.
During the proceedings, lawyer Devanesh Sharma presented documents that confirmed Sayed-Khaiyum’s signatures, adding complexity to the case. Chief Justice Salesi Temo noted procedural inconsistencies and missing documentation in Saneem’s files, further complicating the legal scenario.
The charges against the individuals are serious. Sayed-Khaiyum is accused of abusing his office, while Saneem faces charges of receiving a corrupt benefit. The allegations focus on Sayed-Khaiyum signing a Deed of Variation that led to Saneem obtaining a substantial tax relief on back pay without the requisite approvals, amounting to $55,944.03.
As the trial progresses, it highlights potential governance issues and underscores the need for robust legal frameworks to prevent misuse of authority. The outcome of this case holds significant implications, potentially affecting public trust and leading to reforms aimed at boosting transparency and ethical governance in Fiji.
The public is closely watching the hearings, hopeful for a resolution that upholds justice and integrity within Fiji’s governing bodies, reinforcing the principles of transparency and accountability in public office.