The Magistrates Court in Suva denied former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum’s request to modify his bail conditions for overseas travel for medical evaluation.
Resident Magistrate Sufia Hamza explained her decision by noting that Sayed-Khaiyum had already received medical treatment for heart and kidney issues in Singapore, and that Dr. Sireli Kaloucava, one of Fiji’s two urologist consultants, confirmed that he could receive necessary post-treatment care in Fiji.
Magistrate Hamza referred to previous case law in her ruling. She cited the case of Arts v State, where Justice Rajasinghe emphasized that it is the responsibility of the applicant to demonstrate the existence of special circumstances that warrant altering bail conditions. These circumstances must be either new or not previously considered by the court.
In another case, Qarase v Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption, Justice Goundar highlighted the importance of ensuring the accused’s attendance at court hearings while also considering the purpose and duration of the overseas trip, as well as its impact on the justice system.
Sayed-Khaiyum faces six counts of abuse of office and seven counts of obstructing justice under the Crimes Act, and Magistrate Hamza characterized the charges as serious.
Sayed-Khaiyum was not present in court during the proceedings. The case has been scheduled for mention on September 3.