Former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum recently took the stand in ongoing legal proceedings at the Suva High Court, where he confirmed his awareness of a letter from the Electoral Commission addressed to then-Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama. The letter sought a review of the salary and benefits of former Supervisor of Elections, Mohammed Saneem, noting that Saneem’s compensation had not been addressed from 2014 to 2021.
During his testimony, Sayed-Khaiyum emphasized that Saneem had the right to request a salary review after such an extended period without one. He indicated that if the government considered any clauses in the “replacement” deed illegal, it had the right to remove them, but no action had been taken. He also pointed out that the financial challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic may have contributed to the delayed salary review.
The tense courtroom atmosphere escalated as Sayed-Khaiyum discussed the terms related to Saneem’s appointment, highlighting that the implementation of these terms rested with the Prime Minister and the chair of the Constitutional Officers Commission, acting on behalf of the government. Sayed-Khaiyum is currently facing charges of abuse of office, while Saneem is under investigation for allegedly receiving a corrupt benefit totaling $55,944.03 in 2022.
Earlier testimonies revealed that Saneem had received a significant salary increase in 2022, following recommendations from an independent committee. Additionally, there have been concerns regarding the unauthorized payment of taxes on behalf of Saneem, which have become key focal points in the case.
As this high-profile trial progresses, it serves as a crucial reminder of the need for transparency and accountability within public office. The implications of these revelations could lead to significant reforms in governance practices, reinforcing the public’s confidence in Fiji’s electoral and governmental systems. The judicial proceedings are set to continue, with many observing their potential impact on the future of Fiji’s political landscape.