Lawyers representing the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) and former finance officer Sarika Devi Raj have been granted additional time to resolve issues related to required disclosures in Raj’s ongoing legal case. During a recent session at the Suva Magistrate’s Court, Raj sought a variation in her bail conditions, particularly wishing to remove her obligation to regularly report to the FICAC headquarters.
Raj faces allegations of having participated in acts that led to an improper gain of $182,404.99 between September 20, 2019, and June 19, 2020. Specifically, she is accused of failing to declare her status as the sole proprietor of Maleka Investment, an active vendor for the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), which purportedly compromised RFMF’s rights.
In the courtroom, Raj’s attorney, Mohammed Saneem, contended that FICAC misled the court concerning the execution of a search warrant and argued that relevant documentation directed by the RFMF’s legal director had not been adequately provided. He raised critical questions regarding the authority in this case, challenging whether the RFMF or the court should hold precedence.
FICAC lawyer Lavinia Ravuikadavu denied the allegation of misleading the court, clarifying that while FICAC executed the search warrant, the organization had over 150 manuals and instructions from RFMF and required specific document requests from Saneem. She indicated that they had communicated their position in a letter sent on December 17, 2024.
Magistrate Pulekeria Low emphasized the necessity for FICAC to furnish all documents essential to their case, given their role as the charging entity. In a structured timeline, Saneem has been allowed 14 days to file a further application for the necessary documents, after which FICAC will have an additional 14 days to respond. Both parties are scheduled to reconvene in court on January 23.
This case exemplifies the complexities involved in legal proceedings concerning corruption allegations, underscoring the commitment to due process and transparency in the judicial system. As both sides work through these legal challenges, it represents a significant step towards accountability within government operations, fostering a hopeful outlook for justice in Fiji.
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