Sanjay Kaba, the Managing Director of Houng Lee Kaba Jacob Limited and former Director of Telecom Fiji Limited, has pleaded not guilty to charges of corruption stemming from allegations of obtaining a financial advantage. Kaba is accused of improperly securing over $766,000 between June 2022 and July 2023 through his company for project management services linked to Telecom Fiji’s new office and data center project. This misconduct allegedly occurred during his tenure as a board member from January 27, 2017, to January 20, 2019, where he failed to disclose his interest as a director of his own firm when bidding for the tender.
At a recent court hearing, Kaba was granted a bail variation by the Suva Magistrates Court, lifting a stop-departure order to allow him to travel overseas from March 1 to 18 for work. He, along with his two sureties, was required to pay a cash bail bond of $25,000 each. In addition to the bail conditions, Kaba’s mother must surrender her passport to the court. The case is currently set to be revisited on March 19.
This situation sheds light on the significant issue of accountability and transparency in governance, particularly within Fiji’s public and corporate sectors. As authorities continue to make concerted efforts against corruption, this case serves to remind stakeholders of the vital need for ethical practices in leadership roles. The ongoing proceedings may play a crucial role in reinforcing standards of integrity in governance and business practices.
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