Daniel Kinston Whippy, the managing director of Carpenters Fiji Limited, has entered a not guilty plea in response to charges filed against him by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). He appeared before Magistrate Sufia Hamza at the Suva Magistrate’s Court for a bail variation hearing.
Whippy faces allegations of advising someone to alter the findings of a Fire Investigation Report linked to a significant incident that took place on April 8, 2018, at the Morris Hedstrom warehouse in Walu Bay, allegedly for personal gain.
During the hearing, FICAC lawyer Sera Fatafehi outlined four conditions that Whippy must meet for travel approval. These include maintaining a $50,000 cash bail already lodged with the court, securing two additional sureties on non-cash bail bonds of $20,000 each, receiving his passport before the end of the day, and upholding a stop departure order until the defense provides results from a visa application.
Fatafehi raised concerns about Whippy potentially absconding from bail and called for increased financial stakes from the accused and his sureties to ensure their commitment to the court proceedings. Defense attorney Stephen Stanton mentioned that Whippy’s wife would travel with him, with their son as an alternative if needed.
Additionally, Whippy’s second attorney, Suruj Sharma, noted the necessity of his passport for an in-person visa application interview at the U.S. Embassy, which may take about three weeks for processing. The case is scheduled to return to court on November 11, when the stop departure order will be further examined.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by FICAC to enforce accountability and integrity within corporate governance in Fiji. As legal proceedings unfold, it is essential for all parties to ensure justice is served while reflecting on the broader implications for business practices in the region.
In summary, Whippy maintains his innocence as he navigates the legal process surrounding serious allegations of corruption, demonstrating the resilience necessary in facing such challenges.
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