The case involving former Chief Executive of the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC), Riyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and Chief Financial Officer Vimlesh Sagar concerning financial misconduct has taken a new turn as efforts to prosecute them regarding a vehicle purchase have been discontinued. The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) lawyer, Lillian Mausio, filed a nolle prosequi after reviewing the charges against Sayed-Khaiyum and Sagar, lifting all bail conditions previously imposed, including a stop departure order.
Sayed-Khaiyum had been charged with one count of abuse of office and another for general dishonesty causing a loss. It was alleged that he circumvented established tender processes to secure a vehicle for FBC at a cost of $207,470, an act purportedly harmful to the corporation’s financial interests that incurred a loss of $84,470.
Sagar was charged with approving this vehicle purchase, also knowing it would lead to financial loss for FBC. Chief Magistrate Josaia Waqaivolavola’s decision to dismiss these charges means that the two have had their bail lifted, and their sureties released.
However, another case against Sayed-Khaiyum and Sagar remains active, with the upcoming hearing scheduled for tomorrow. In the pending matter, they face additional charges related to general dishonesty and abuse of office for actions taken without the approval of the FBC board, incurring costs that allegedly detracted from the company’s overall financial health.
The prominence of this case highlights ongoing concerns regarding governance in public sector organizations within Fiji. While the discontinuation of the vehicle purchase charges may seem like a setback for accountability, the continuation of other charges demonstrates a commitment to scrutinizing leadership actions. As the legal process unfolds, it presents an opportunity not just for justice but also for reinforcing ethical standards and operational transparency in Fiji’s corporate sector.
Moving forward, it is essential for organizations to adhere to established protocols to prevent such scenarios and maintain public trust. The outcome of the ongoing case may serve as a significant lesson for fostering integrity and accountability within public institutions.
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