Daniel Whippy, the Managing Director of Carpenters Fiji, has affirmed his not guilty plea concerning the corruption charges brought against him. He faces a charge of ‘counselling for the omission of the offense’ alongside former National Fire Authority Chairman John O’Connor, who is charged with ‘abuse of office.’ These accusations stem from a fire incident at the Carpenters Fiji property, MH Warehouse, which occurred in 2018.
As part of the conditions set by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) to grant him permission to travel to the United States for urgent knee stem cell treatment, Whippy was required to enter a plea. FICAC’s Senior State Counsel, Sera Fatafehi, indicated that should he fail to return to the country, the trial would proceed in his absence.
Whippy’s legal representation has advocated for his constitutional right to accessible health care, underscoring the urgency of his medical needs. The court has accepted two sureties of $20,000 each to ensure his presence for future proceedings, which FICAC did not contest. To facilitate his visa application for medical treatment in the U.S., Whippy’s passport has been returned to him, while a deposit of $50,000 has been maintained in registry as ordered by the court.
The allegations suggest that during his tenure as Chair of the National Fire Authority Board between January 1 and September 28, 2018, O’Connor allegedly misused his position by instructing NFA officers to alter conclusions in their fire investigation report, which may have been intended for personal gain. Whippy is accused of counselling O’Connor in this matter.
The proceedings have been adjourned until the 19th of this month for a bail application hearing pending the outcome of the visa request, with a stop departure order remaining in effect.
This situation highlights the legal complexities surrounding corporate governance and accountability, as well as the importance of health rights for individuals involved in legal disputes. It serves as a reminder of the balance between personal health needs and legal obligations and underscores the judicial system’s role in safeguarding both. By tackling these issues, there may be a greater opportunity to ensure transparency and uphold the rule of law moving forward.
Leave a comment