Daniel Kinston Whippy, the managing director of Carpenters Fiji Limited, has pleaded not guilty to corruption charges brought against him by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). His appearance in Suva Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Sufia Hamza was for a bail variation hearing related to these charges.
Whippy is accused of counseling the modification of the Fire Investigation Report concerning an incident at the Morris Hedstrom warehouse in Walu Bay on April 8, 2018, with the aim of securing financial gain. During the hearing, both parties agreed that stem cell procedures are currently unavailable in Fiji, which may have implications for the ongoing proceedings.
FICAC lawyer, Sera Fatafehi, outlined specific conditions for Whippy’s travel while on bail, including maintaining a $50,000 cash bail bond already submitted to the court, non-cash bail bonds of $20,000 each for his two sureties, the release of his passport by the end of the day, and a continuing stop departure order until a visa application is resolved. Fatafehi expressed concerns about the possibility of Whippy absconding if released.
In his defense, attorney Stephen Stanton mentioned that Whippy’s wife would accompany him, with their son as an alternative option. It was also confirmed that no admissions were made by Whippy during his caution interview and both parties agreed for the case to be heard in the Magistrate’s Court. Whippy’s second lawyer, Suruj Sharma, noted that a visa application had been submitted online but was pending an in-person interview, which necessitates the passport.
The next court hearing is scheduled for November 11, at which time the implications of the stop departure order will be revisited.
This situation underscores the legal complexities involved in corruption cases and highlights the importance of due process in addressing such serious allegations. The forthcoming court dates will be crucial in determining Whippy’s future and could potentially set a precedent for similar cases in Fiji. It’s a reminder of the importance of integrity in business practices and governance.
Summary: Daniel Kinston Whippy has pleaded not guilty to corruption charges related to a fire investigation. The court examined bail conditions while expressing concerns over the possibility he might abscond. The case will continue on November 11.
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