In an ongoing legal case in Fiji, the financial practices of the Fijian Elections Office have come under scrutiny as Romika Sewak, the office’s financial controller, is cross-examined by defense lawyer Devanesh Sharma. This marks the third day of the trial concerning former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem and former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.
The allegations pertain to events in mid-2022, where Sayed-Khaiyum, then Acting Prime Minister, allegedly signed a Deed of Variation and Addendum with Saneem, allowing the government to cover Saneem’s taxes without required approvals from Fiji’s Constitutional Offices Commission and the President. Saneem is accused of benefiting unlawfully by more than $55,000 in tax relief on his back pay during this period.
Prosecutors, led by Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Nancy Tikoisuva and Hezekiah Nofaga, argue that these actions were taken without legal authority. Saneem and Sayed-Khaiyum, represented by RPatel Lawyers’ Devanesh Sharma and Gul Fatima, face charges of abuse of office and receiving corrupt benefits.
Chief Justice Salesi Temo has scheduled the trial to continue from September 16 to October 3, 2025. The case has captured public interest, highlighting issues of governance, transparency, and ethical conduct in public offices within Fiji. Observers are keen to see how the trial progresses, hoping it will fortify the principles of accountability and contribute to enhanced governance practices moving forward.
Given the trial’s potential implications, it serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to established legal protocols for government officials. The outcome may not only determine the fate of those involved but also influence future policy reforms to ensure stringent oversight of governmental operations in Fiji.
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