The bail hearing for former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has been delayed due to his serious medical condition, as he is currently hospitalized following a stroke and heart disease. Presenting this information to the High Court in Suva, his attorneys, Devanesh Sharma and Gul Fatima, advocated for the postponement, emphasizing the gravity of Sayed-Khaiyum’s health issues.
Sayed-Khaiyum collapsed at his residence in Nadi on Monday and was subsequently treated at Heart International hospital before being referred to Lautoka Hospital for comprehensive care. Legal representative Gul Fatima explained in court that he is experiencing weakness and neurological issues, leaving the medical team uncertain about his discharge date. The court has been informed that he requires a follow-up examination in two weeks.
While his co-defendant, former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem, attended the court session, the Acting Director of Public Prosecutions, Nancy Tikoisuva, raised no objections to the defense’s request for additional time. She noted that prior medical affidavits from local doctors indicated Sayed-Khaiyum was in a condition that could be managed within Fiji.
Fatima requested that the court delay any further proceedings until a more current medical report is available. Justice Temo expressed his wishes for a quick recovery for Sayed-Khaiyum, and decided that both sides would use this time to resolve pretrial matters before the next court date scheduled for August 1.
The support from the legal system for Sayed-Khaiyum’s health and well-being has been apparent, and there’s a prevailing hope that he completes his recovery soon. This would enable him to address the legal challenges he is facing, including accusations of abuse of office, alongside Saneem.
This situation highlights the ongoing struggles Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum is facing, but also puts forth a compassionate approach from the court as they navigate both his health and legal circumstances. The time allotted for additional medical evaluation reflects an understanding of the importance of health considerations within judicial processes.
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