Tension escalated during a bail variation hearing yesterday for Daniel Whippy, the managing director of Carpenters Fiji. The central issue revolved around whether he could undergo a knee replacement procedure locally. Whippy appeared before Senior Magistrate Sufia Hamza, facing a charge of counseling the commission of an offense.
Prosecutor Sera Fatafehi communicated that the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) maintained a strong objection to the proposed bail variation, which would allow Whippy to travel overseas for necessary medical treatment. When asked by Magistrate Hamza about the availability of treatment nearby, it was noted that while a local doctor was familiar with the required procedure, that doctor was unavailable to provide an opinion during the hearing.
A report from a doctor at Nasese private hospital indicated that Mr. Whippy needed a knee replacement but deemed it non-urgent. In response, defense attorney Suruj Sharma urged the court and the prosecution to take into account the severe discomfort his client has been experiencing daily.
Mr. Whippy faces charges alongside former National Fire Authority CEO John O’Connor, who is accused of abuse of office. Both individuals are alleged to have falsified the findings of an investigation into an MH warehouse fire that occurred in April 2018. O’Connor reportedly instructed NFA officers to alter the investigation report for personal gain, while Whippy is accused of encouraging this misconduct.
The court has adjourned the case until October 31, with a subsequent hearing on the bail variation set for November 6.
Summary: Daniel Whippy, managing director of Carpenters Fiji, faced a tense bail variation hearing regarding a knee replacement procedure. Despite a local doctor’s report deeming treatment necessary, FICAC opposed the variation, citing ongoing investigations into alleged misconduct concerning a past fire incident. The case is adjourned until late October and early November.
Despite the current challenges, there is hope that a resolution may allow Mr. Whippy to receive the medical care he urgently needs while navigating the legal proceedings.
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