The ongoing trial of former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem and former Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum is uncovering complex issues surrounding allegations of tax mismanagement and corruption. Central to the case is the accusation that Sayed-Khaiyum, during his term as Acting Prime Minister, signed a Deed of Variation and Addendum that enabled the government to cover Saneem’s taxes, bypassing necessary approvals from the Constitutional Offices Commission and the President. This alleged arrangement reportedly provided Saneem with over $50,000 in tax relief on his back pay.
Lewai Karavaki, a Senior Manager at the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, testified that tax reimbursements should typically revert to the entity that paid the employee’s taxes, as in expatriate cases. However, Saneem’s tax filings, submitted in November 2022, were penalized for delays, contradicting standard tax procedures. Karavaki noted a lack of documentation showing tax exemption for Saneem.
The review uncovered inconsistencies between the documentation from the Fijian Elections Office and FRCS records. The defense argues that government payments did not settle Saneem’s taxes, which were deducted from his salary. FEO officials, including Financial Controller Romika Sewak and Manager of Corporate Services Sanjeshwar Ram, have described the tax payment as irregular. Ram noted an atmosphere where employees were hesitant to voice concerns until after Saneem’s suspension.
The defense also questions the authority with which Sayed-Khaiyum signed the Deed of Variation, emphasizing a lack of transparency in government decisions. These proceedings highlight governance issues and underscore the judiciary’s role in addressing potential ethical breaches in public office.
The trial stresses the need for strict adherence to legal protocols, likely sparking debates on ethical governance in Fiji. This case could potentially inspire policy reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability within the public sector. As the trial unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper checks and balances in government operations, fostering hope for a more accountable and transparent governance framework in the future.