Pawan Deo, a former accountant for the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU), and his wife, Subhashni Mudaliar, have pleaded not guilty to multiple charges in the Suva Magistrate’s Court. The couple faces serious allegations of conspiracy to defraud, obtaining a financial gain, and unlawfully securing a financial advantage.

The charges arise from accusations that between February 1 and July 31, 2022, while running Sports Supplies Limited (SSL), Mr. Deo, who also served as the FRU’s financial accountant, conspired with Ms. Mudaliar to misappropriate $53,788.75 from the organization. In addition, they are alleged to have fraudulently facilitated payments leading to an unauthorized gain of $7,291.83 for SSL, despite the couple’s knowledge that the company was ineligible to receive such funds during a specific timeframe from February 1 to May 11, 2022.

During the proceedings, prosecution attorney Ravinesh Lal confirmed that all necessary disclosures had been served to the defendants as of November 26 of the previous year. The couple’s legal representatives expressed their intention to approach the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) to reconsider the charges against them.

Following the hearing, the couple’s bail was extended, and the court has scheduled their next hearing for February 28. This case highlights ongoing concerns regarding transparency and accountability within organizations managing public funds, particularly in the sports sector, where integrity is crucial for maintaining public trust.

As the legal process unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the need for ethical standards and accountability in sports governance. The potential outcomes of this case may prompt stronger regulations and oversight within sports organizations in Fiji, contributing to a more transparent and trustworthy environment for the future.