Former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem are scheduled to stand trial next Tuesday, according to a confirmation from both prosecution and defense teams during a pre-trial conference at the High Court in Suva. The session, overseen by Chief Justice Temo, confirmed that both parties are ready to proceed with the trial on September 16, 2025.
The case involves serious allegations from a 2022 incident where Sayed-Khaiyum, serving then as Attorney General, reportedly signed a Deed of Variation permitting the government to pay over $55,000 in back taxes owed by Saneem. This payment allegedly occurred without obtaining the necessary approvals from the Constitutional Offices Commission and the President of Fiji, leading to the charges against Sayed-Khaiyum for abuse of office and Saneem for receiving a corrupt benefit.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions will rely on caution interview statements as part of its evidence. Meanwhile, the defense noted that their clients may decide to remain silent or testify during the proceedings.
This trial has already gained significant public attention, reflecting pertinent issues about governance and accountability in Fiji. The trial is set to unfold from September 15 to October 3, 2025, offering an essential opportunity for transparency and justice that could reinforce public trust in governmental institutions.
The outcome of this case might also influence future governmental policies concerning ethical conduct in public office. As the trial progresses, the public and political observers will closely monitor how these proceedings address the critical questions regarding the ethics and accountability of those who hold positions of power.
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