The trial of former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem is set to begin, with Supervisor of Elections Ana Mataiciwa expected to testify as the prosecution’s first witness. The case, presided over by Chief Justice Salesi Temo, involves allegations against Sayed-Khaiyum and Saneem concerning actions they took during their respective tenures.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), led by Acting Nancy Tikoisuva and Lawyer Hezekiah Nofaga, has alleged that Sayed-Khaiyum, while serving as Acting Prime Minister between June 30 and July 12, 2022, approved a Deed of Variation allowing the government to pay Saneem’s taxes without the required approvals from the Constitutional Offices Commission and the President of Fiji.
Saneem is accused of soliciting and receiving a tax benefit exceeding $55,000 on his back pay without lawful authority between June 1 and July 31, 2022. These charges have heightened public interest due to their implications for governance and accountability in Fiji. The trial is set to take place in Suva High Court from September 16 to October 3, 2025.
Represented by RPatel Lawyers Devanesh Sharma and Gul Fatima, the defendants face serious charges of abuse of office and receiving corrupt benefits, reflecting broader concerns about transparency and ethical conduct in Fiji’s governmental operations. The case underscores the significance of upholding rigorous legal and ethical standards within public office to maintain public trust and integrity in government institutions.
As the proceedings unfold, many are hopeful that a fair and transparent trial will reinforce accountability and set essential precedents for governance practices in Fiji. The outcomes of this high-profile trial could have far-reaching effects, potentially influencing future policy reforms and enhancing oversight of government officials.
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