The legal proceedings against former Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC) CEO Riyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and the current Chief Financial Officer Vimlesh Sagar are set to advance in court, following recent appearances before Magistrate Charles Ratakele. Both have been charged with serious offenses, including abuse of office and general dishonesty that resulted in financial losses to the corporation.
Sayed-Khaiyum faces allegations of initiating five legal actions without the approval of the FBC board, which purportedly cost the company $138,813.37 between July 1, 2017, and January 31, 2023. He also faces an additional charge related to bypassing established tender processes in the procurement of a 3.0L Volkswagen Touareg, a transaction valued at $207,240 that is claimed to have led to a loss of $84,470 for the company.
Sagar is similarly charged for approving unauthorized payments to R Patel Lawyers, totaling $15,075.88, made without board consent during the period from January 1 to December 31 of last year.
The case, which has been adjourned to August 4 for the State’s position, has underscored the critical need for transparency and accountability in corporate governance. The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has emphasized its commitment to promoting ethical standards and integrity within the public sector, showcasing the importance of accountability for individuals in positions of power.
As these legal proceedings unfold, there is hope that they will lead to improved governance practices within public institutions, helping to restore trust among stakeholders and the public. The outcome could set a significant precedent for future governance standards, reinforcing the necessity of ethical conduct in public service.
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