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 before Magistrate Sufia Hamza at the Suva Magistrate’s Court for a bail variation hearing related to allegations of counseling the alteration of the Fire Investigation Report concerning a significant incident at the Morris Hedstrom warehouse in Walu Bay on April 8, 2018.
During the hearing, FICAC lawyer Sera Fatafehi outlined four conditions necessary for Whippy’s travel. These conditions include maintaining the previously set $50,000 cash bail bond, having his sureties bonded on a non-cash bail bond of $20,000 each, releasing his passport by the end of the business day, and maintaining the stop departure order until the outcome of his visa application is known.
Fatafehi expressed concerns regarding Whippy potentially absconding bail, advocating for the elevated bail bond to ensure that both Whippy and his sureties are more invested in the proceedings. Whippy’s defense attorney, Stephen Stanton, indicated that Whippy’s wife would accompany him, with their son as a backup if necessary.
It was confirmed through proceedings that Whippy made no admissions during his caution interview. Both parties consented to have the case heard in the Magistrate’s Court. Furthermore, Whippy’s second lawyer, Suruj Sharma, informed the court about an online visa application submitted, stating that having his passport is crucial for an in-person interview with the U.S. Embassy, which is expected to take around three weeks for processing.
The case is scheduled for another hearing on November 11, during which the stop departure order will be further addressed.
This situation highlights the importance of due process and accountability, allowing the legal system to unfold while ensuring both parties can adequately prepare for the next steps in the case. It is hoped that clarity will emerge with the upcoming hearings, bringing resolution to the matter for all involved.
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