Daniel Whippy, the Managing Director of Carpenters Fiji, has entered a plea of not guilty in response to corruption charges against him. He is facing a charge related to his alleged role in counseling the omission of an offense connected to a fire incident at the Carpenters Fiji MH Warehouse in Walubay in 2018. Alongside him, the former Chairman of the National Fire Authority, John O’Connor, is charged with abuse of office.
Whippy’s plea was a requirement by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) to facilitate his travel to the United States for urgent knee stem cell treatment. The court was informed that if Whippy fails to return after his treatment, the trial would proceed without him. Whippy’s lawyer emphasized his client’s constitutional right to health and the necessity of the medical procedure.
The court has accepted two sureties with $20,000 bonds as a safeguard in case Whippy does not appear for his court dates. FICAC expressed no objections to the sureties, and the court has released Whippy’s passport to enable his visa application for medical purposes. Additionally, Whippy has deposited $50,000 into the court registry, which will remain until the case is resolved.
The charges against O’Connor involve allegations that he abused his authority as Chair of the National Fire Authority Board by directing officials to alter findings in their fire investigation report related to the Walubay fire, which purportedly served to benefit him improperly. It is claimed that Whippy provided counsel to O’Connor in this matter.
The next court session regarding Whippy’s bail application and visa status is scheduled for the 19th of this month, and a stop departure order remains in effect.
This case highlights the importance of accountability and integrity in leadership positions. As the judicial process unfolds, it also underscores the balance between legal obligations and personal health needs, reflecting a commitment to justice while prioritizing the well-being of individuals involved.
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