The High Court in Suva has raised concerns regarding the late filing of disclosures in the trial of former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, former Health Minister Neil Sharma, and former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. The case, which is set to begin on November 10, involves serious charges including abuse of office, obstructing justice, and breach of trust linked to alleged transactions from 2011.
During a pretrial conference, Senior State Lawyer Pooja Mishra informed the court that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) had attempted to submit additional disclosures just days before the trial. As a result, Mishra sought to postpone the trial to a later date in November.
Defense lawyers Wylie Clarke, representing Dr. Sharma, and Gul Fatima, representing Bainimarama and Sayed-Khaiyum, voiced strong objections to the proposed timeline, citing the extensive volume of disclosures requiring careful review with their clients. Clarke suggested rescheduling the trial to early March 2026, while Fatima proposed a later date due to her existing commitments in court.
Justice Usaia Ratuvili expressed frustration over the prosecution’s delay, emphasizing that it was unacceptable for necessary documents to be filed so close to the proceedings. He directed Mishra to provide an affidavit by tomorrow, explaining the reasons behind the delay.
This trial follows a series of hearings related to allegations that the defendants violated the 2010 Procurement Regulations by failing to adhere to statutory requirements in their decision-making while in office. Specifically, the charges involve favoritism in the tendering process for a company known as Hospital Engineering and Consultancy Ltd (Hospineer).
The case has garnered significant attention from both legal experts and the public, as it reflects broader issues of governance, integrity, and transparency in Fiji’s political landscape. The legal proceedings not only emphasize the need for accountability among public officials but also hold the potential to enhance citizens’ trust in governmental operations.
With the trial now adjourned until November 10, many hope the outcome will reinforce ethical standards and promote responsible governance within the region. The legal system’s response to such serious allegations could serve as a turning point, fostering a culture of transparency crucial for restoring public confidence in institutions.