The Magistrates Court in Suva has denied former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum’s request to modify his bail conditions to allow for overseas travel for medical evaluations. Resident Magistrate Sufia Hamza stated that Sayed-Khaiyum previously received treatment for heart and kidney issues in Singapore, and Dr. Sireli Kaloucava, one of the only two urologist consultants in Fiji, confirmed that adequate post-treatment care is accessible in Fiji.
In her ruling, Magistrate Hamza referenced legal precedents, noting that the burden lies with the applicant to demonstrate the presence of special and imperative circumstances justifying any changes to bail conditions. She emphasized that any such circumstances must be either new or not previously addressed when the bail conditions were set.
Furthermore, she cited another case where the need to ensure the accused’s presence at hearings, the purpose and duration of the overseas trip, and any potential interference with the judicial process were deemed important factors for consideration.
Sayed-Khaiyum faces six counts of abuse of office and seven counts of obstructing the course of justice, all considered serious offenses. He was not present in court for the ruling, and the case has been postponed until September 3 for further mention.