Daniel Kinston Whippy, managing director of Carpenters Fiji Limited, has pleaded not guilty to charges brought against him by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). Whippy appeared in the Suva Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Sufia Hamza for a bail variation hearing.
Whippy faces accusations of advising on altering the findings of a Fire Investigation Report related to a fire incident at the Morris Hedstrom warehouse in Walu Bay on April 8, 2018, allegedly for personal gain. During the hearing, it was revealed that both parties reached an understanding concerning the lack of stem cell procedures available in Fiji.
FICAC lawyer, Sera Fatafehi, indicated that Whippy must adhere to four conditions to facilitate his travel. These include maintaining a cash bail bond of $50,000, having his two sureties bonded on a non-cash bail bond of $20,000 each, the release of his passport by the end of the business day, and the continuation of a stop departure order until a decision on his visa application is made by the defense.
Fatafehi objected to the bail due to concerns over the possibility of Whippy absconding. She emphasized that increasing the bail bonds was essential to ensure both the accused and the sureties remained committed to the proceedings. The defense, represented by lawyer Stephen Stanton, stated that Whippy’s wife would accompany him, with his son nominated as an alternative if necessary.
It was confirmed by Fatafehi that Whippy made no admissions during his caution interview, and both parties agreed to resolve the case in the Magistrate’s Court. The defense’s second lawyer, Suruj Sharma, informed the court that a visa application had been submitted online but that Whippy’s passport was needed for an in-person interview. The U.S. Embassy’s processing time for the visa application is expected to take approximately three weeks. The next hearing is scheduled for November 11, when the stop departure order will be revisited.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by authorities to maintain integrity in corporate governance and accountability in business practices. It underscores the importance of due process and the legal proceedings that ensure fair treatment under the law.
In summary, while the proceedings are serious for Whippy, there’s a commitment to ensure fairness and proper legal representation, reflecting the checks and balances integral to judicial systems. The cooperation between both parties in this matter indicates a systemic approach to resolving such issues responsibly.
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