The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has issued a statement in response to public and media queries regarding a procedural oversight related to the arrest of Riyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. Acting Commissioner Lavi Rokoika acknowledged the lapse and confirmed that the issue was directly discussed with Sayed-Khaiyum’s legal representatives.
Rokoika stated that FICAC had offered to retract the existing charge and initiate a new arrest and charge, thereby keeping Sayed-Khaiyum in custody overnight. She took full responsibility for her officers’ actions and emphasized that at no point were Sayed-Khaiyum’s constitutional rights breached, nor was his right to a fair trial compromised.
She described the oversight as unfortunate but noted it was not detrimental to the proceedings, a sentiment echoed by the Defence Counsel who acknowledged the situation prior to the formal proceedings.
Sayed-Khaiyum is facing serious allegations which include abuse of office and general dishonesty causing financial loss. Specifically, he is accused of bypassing the tender process regarding the acquisition of a 3.0L Volkswagen Touareg valued at $207,470, an action that reportedly led to a loss of $84,470 for the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC). These actions are alleged to have taken place between September 1, 2022, and November 11, 2022.
The ongoing case underscores the persistence of ethical concerns in corporate governance within Fiji’s public sector. Legal experts assert that the handling of this situation represents an opportunity to reinforce principles of transparency and accountability, potentially restoring public trust in governmental institutions. As the legal process progresses, there remains hope that these actions will culminate in a stronger adherence to ethical standards, benefitting Fiji’s future governance.
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