Daniel Kinston Whippy, the 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 Suva Magistrate’s Court, presided over by Magistrate Sufia Hamza, for a bail variation hearing concerning allegations of attempting to alter the findings of a Fire Investigation Report connected to an incident at the Morris Hedstrom warehouse in Walu Bay on April 8, 2018, for personal gain.
During the court proceedings, an agreement was reached regarding the unavailability of stem cell procedures in the country. FICAC lawyer, Sera Fatafehi, outlined four conditions that Whippy must fulfill to allow travel: maintaining the existing $50,000 cash bail, securing two sureties each with a non-cash bail bond of $20,000, the release of his passport by the end of the day, and the continuation of a stop departure order until a visa application resolution is reached.
Fatafehi articulated concerns over the risk of Whippy absconding bail, emphasizing the need for a substantial bail bond to ensure the defendant and his sureties remain committed to the legal process. Whippy’s defense lawyer, Stephen Stanton, noted that his wife would accompany him during his travels, with their son named as an alternative if necessary.
FICAC confirmed that Whippy made no admissions during his caution interview, with both parties agreeing to have the case heard in Magistrate’s Court. Whippy’s second lawyer, Suruj Sharma, explained they have submitted an online visa application, but he requires his passport for an in-person interview, which may take about three weeks for processing by the United States Embassy. The next hearing is scheduled for November 11, at which the stop departure order will be reviewed.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts to combat corruption and ensure accountability, with legal processes being handled transparently. It is a reminder of the importance of integrity in business and governance, and the legal system’s role in addressing allegations of misconduct. The proceedings will continue to unfold, and all parties involved remain dedicated to resolving the matter in accordance with the law.
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