Daniel Whippy, Managing Director of Carpenters Fiji, has entered a not guilty plea regarding allegations of corruption. Whippy is facing charges related to his alleged counseling of former National Fire Authority Chairman John O’Connor, who is accused of abusing his office.
The charges stem from a fire incident at Carpenters Fiji’s MH Warehouse in Walubay back in 2018. Whippy’s plea was necessary to fulfill a requirement set by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) to secure permission to travel to the United States for urgent knee stem cell treatment.
In court, FICAC’s Senior State Counsel Sera Fatafehi emphasized the need for Whippy to make his plea, stating that if he fails to return to Fiji, the trial could proceed without him. Whippy’s defense lawyer argued that his client is entitled to receive necessary medical treatment under the Constitution.
The court has permitted the release of Whippy’s passport so he can apply for a medical visa, with two sureties of $20,000 each being accepted to ensure he does not abscond. Additionally, a $50,000 deposit that Whippy made remains in the court’s registry.
John O’Connor is accused of misusing his position to instruct NFA officers to alter their findings in a fire investigation report, thereby acting in a way that could benefit him personally. Whippy is alleged to have counseled him in this wrongdoing.
The case has been adjourned until the 19th of this month, during which time Whippy’s bail application related to his visa application will be discussed. A stop departure order remains active, pending further developments.
While the situation is serious, Whippy’s commitment to his health and his right to seek necessary medical treatment is an important aspect of this case, highlighting the balance between legal responsibilities and individual rights. As the proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen how the court will address these complex issues while ensuring justice is served.
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