Former Supervisor of Elections, Mohammed Saneem, testified in court regarding alleged violations of his rights during his arrest and subsequent remand earlier this year. Saneem appeared at the Suva Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Yogesh Prasad, providing evidence in response to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions’ (ODPP) request to consolidate charges against him and former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. He is also seeking to have these charges declared null and void due to alleged breaches of his rights.
Saneem asserted that his human rights were violated during the period from March 8 to March 11 while he was in custody. The charges against him stem from allegations that he unlawfully solicited and received over $50,000 in tax relief for personal gain while serving as the Supervisor of Elections between June 1, 2022, and July 31, 2022.
In recounting the details of his arrest, Saneem described a scenario where he was taken into custody by two police officers who posed as clients seeking legal assistance. When he requested a temporary lawyer, he was informed that the Director of Public Prosecutions had ordered immediate charges against him instead. He testified that he was given no written justification for his detention, with the police merely citing “orders from above.”
During his three-day detention at Totogo Police Station, Saneem detailed the poor conditions he faced and the stress stemming from his prior responsibilities overseeing three elections. He claimed lack of communication with DPP officials left him in a state of uncertainty, as no court order extended his remand.
The case took a turn when Saneem was questioned about allegations of undue influence involving a FijiFirst party banner at the Suva Civic car park. He argued that he had acted to remove the banner and presented a letter from the former chair of the Electoral Commission confirming his actions, which he believed demonstrated his dedication to fairness.
Meanwhile, co-defendant Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum faced abuse of office charges for allegedly authorizing a payment arrangement that benefited Saneem without proper approvals. Saneem is accused of soliciting corrupt benefits through government connections. The case will continue on December 17, when a ruling is expected.
This ongoing legal battle raises significant concerns about the conduct of public officials and the integrity of the electoral process. As the case unfolds, it is crucial for all parties involved to ensure they adhere to the principles of justice and fairness, highlighting the importance of protecting individual rights within the system. There is a sense of hope that through this process, measures may be taken to reinforce accountability and transparency in governance.
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