Former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem is embroiled in a civil lawsuit against the State over an unpaid leave payout totaling $54,443.71. The case, which will be recalled in November, involves key government figures such as the President, the Prime Minister, the Constitutional Offices Commission, the Solicitor-General, and the Attorney-General as defendants. The dispute arises from Saneem’s claim that, upon his suspension and subsequent resignation after the 2022 General Elections, he was owed a final leave payout of $67,307 but received only $12,863.86.
During the recent court proceedings, Saneem’s lawyer, Aiman Sayed-Khaiyum, informed Justice Savenaca Banuve that a reply to the State’s opposing affidavit is pending, with the deadline set for October 20. The lawsuit is set for recall in the High Court in Suva on November 7. The delay in proceedings is attributed to an ongoing trial where Saneem is facing additional charges alongside former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.
Similar reports from prior articles highlight Saneem’s legal battles, including allegations of rights violations during custody and charges of receiving a corrupt benefit. Both he and Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum face scrutiny for purportedly unauthorized financial agreements and tax relief issues during 2022. These cases, linked to broader claims of governmental misconduct, underscore ongoing tensions regarding accountability and transparency within the current political climate.
The convergence of these legal issues paints a picture of complexity and contention within Fiji’s judicial and political landscape. The outcome of these cases may have significant implications for governance standards and the legal accountability of public officials in the country.