The trial involving former Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem has been rescheduled to 2:30 pm according to a notice displayed at the High Court in Suva. Initially set for 10:30 am, Chief Justice Temo is now expected to preside over the case later in the afternoon.
The allegations center around events that took place between June 30 and July 12, 2022, when Sayed-Khaiyum, acting as Prime Minister, allegedly signed a Deed of Variation and Addendum with Saneem, enabling the government to handle Saneem’s tax obligations. This action reportedly occurred without obtaining the necessary approvals from the Constitutional Offices Commission and the President of Fiji.
Further accusations pinpoint Saneem’s solicitation of tax relief benefits over $55,000 during the period from June 1 to July 31, 2022, without lawful authority or a reasonable excuse. Both men are represented by legal counsel from RPatel Lawyers, specifically Devanesh Sharma and Gul Fatima.
The trial is notably set for a future date, slated to run from September 16 to October 3, 2025. As the case progresses, it highlights significant public concerns over accountability and governance within Fiji. The case has drawn considerable public interest, with expectations that transparent legal proceedings may restore and reinforce public trust in the nation’s governing institutions.
This high-profile case underscores ongoing debates and concerns about ethical conduct and governance reforms in Fiji. Observers and citizens alike hope that a fair trial will establish robust procedures for governmental oversight and reinforce trust in public officials.
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