The trial of former acting Prime Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem is progressing at the High Court in Suva, presided over by Chief Justice Salesi Temo. Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Nancy Tikoisuva has formally closed the State’s case against the two high-profile figures, marking a significant phase in the legal proceedings.
Sayed-Khaiyum is accused of authorizing a second Deed of Variation and Addendum between the Government of Fiji and Saneem. The authorization allegedly occurred without the necessary endorsements from the President or the Constitutional Offices Commission, as required under Section 136 of the Constitution. This purported act took place between June 30 and July 21, 2022, during Sayed-Khaiyum’s tenure as acting Prime Minister.
In a related charge, Saneem is alleged to have unlawfully sought and received a benefit in the form of a tax relief worth $55,944.03. This benefit, reportedly facilitated by Sayed-Khaiyum, lacked proper authorization. The supposed misconduct falls within the timeframe of June 1 to July 31, 2022.
Both defendants, represented by Devanesh Sharma and Gul Fatima of RPatel Lawyers, face serious charges of abuse of office and receiving corrupt benefits. The case has drawn significant public interest, highlighting matters of accountability and governance in Fiji. The public is keenly observing the proceedings, anticipating that the case will set precedents for transparency and ethical standards in public office in the country.
As the defense prepares to present its case, the trial underscores the importance of upholding rigorous legal and ethical standards in governance to maintain public trust. The outcome of this trial has the potential to influence future policy reforms and enhance oversight of senior government officials, providing an opportunity to reinforce the integrity of governmental operations in Fiji.