Sanjay Kaba, a former board member of Telecom Fiji Limited (TFL) and Amalgamated Telecom Holdings Limited (ATH), has been charged by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) with one count of obtaining a financial advantage. The charge stems from allegations that during his tenure as a board member between January 27, 2017, and January 20, 2019, Kaba submitted a bid through his company, Houng Lee Kaba Jacobs (HLK Jacob) Pte Limited, for Project Management services related to TFL’s new office and data centre project.
FICAC alleges that Kaba obtained a total of $766,327.22, fully aware that HLK Jacob was ineligible for the funds because he failed to disclose his interest as a director of the company. A magistrate has indicated that a plea will be entered once full disclosures are provided.
Mr. Kaba has been granted bail, with a stipulation to refrain from any further wrongdoing, and a stop departure order has been implemented to prevent him from leaving the country. The complaint against him was received by FICAC on May 29, 2024, with an investigation directive issued shortly thereafter.
Kaba is noted for his previous roles, including as the Managing Director of Houng Lee Kaba Jacobs and chairperson of the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) Board Investment Committee in 2020. His extensive experience also includes directorship in Vodafone Fiji Limited and Fiji Airways. He is a professional member of both the Australian Institute of Engineers and the Fiji Institute of Engineers, holding a Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) from the University of Canterbury, New Zealand.
This case underscores the importance of transparency and accountability within corporate governance, especially in public sector appointments. It reflects ongoing efforts by authorities to combat corruption and ensure that individuals in positions of power are held to the highest ethical standards. The legal proceedings will now determine the outcome of these serious allegations.
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