Former Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC) CEO Riyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and current Chief Financial Officer Vimlesh Sagar have opted to proceed with their cases in the lower court. Both men appeared before Suva’s acting Chief Magistrate Josaia Waqaivolavola, where they pleaded not guilty to the charges they face.
Sayed-Khaiyum is accused of abuse of office and general dishonesty that resulted in a financial loss. Specifically, he allegedly bypassed the tender process set out in FBC’s finance manual to purchase a 3.0L Volkswagen Touareg for $207,240, which purportedly led to an overall loss of $84,470 for the company.
Sagar shares allegations of general dishonesty resulting in loss, with accusations that he approved payments related to the vehicle purchase. The trial for these accusations is scheduled to take place from September 2 to September 12 next year.
Additionally, there are separate charges against Sayed-Khaiyum for allegedly engaging in five legal proceedings without the FBC board’s knowledge or consent, costing the company $138,813.37 between July 1, 2017, and January 31 of the previous year. Sagar is also implicated in approving payments of $15,075.88 to R Patel Lawyers without board approval during the year 2023.
The case has been adjourned until April 11 next year.
This situation highlights the importance of corporate governance and due diligence. The forthcoming trial presents an opportunity for a deeper examination of accountability within corporations and may lead to stricter adherence to procurement and approval processes in FBC and other organizations. As the legal proceedings unfold, it could foster a positive change in how corporate practices are conducted in the future, ensuring transparency and responsible management.
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