The Magistrates Court highlighted that the offence of abuse of office is essential for maintaining the integrity of governmental institutions against corruption and misuse of power.
Former Post Fiji CEO Anirudha Bansod has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for submitting a false confidentiality and conflict of interest declaration related to the tender for the design, development, and implementation of the Post Fiji Mobile Application.
While delivering the sentence, Magistrate Yogesh Prasad emphasized the importance of public interest and deterrence, stating that he chose not to suspend Bansod’s sentence.
Bansod falsely claimed he had no connections with Technobase IT Solutions Limited during the bidding process, despite knowing the company involved. Magistrate Prasad noted that Bansod severely violated the trust placed in him to act in the best interests of Post Fiji Limited.
Evidence was presented showing communications between Bansod and Technobase IT Solutions Director Vaibhav Deshpande via WhatsApp, which indicated that insider information from a government enterprise was leaked to India during the tender process.
The court also mentioned that Technobase IT Solutions was ultimately awarded the contract to provide e-wallet services, which raised concerns regarding Bansod’s breach of trust in his position.
While considering mitigating factors, the court recognized that Bansod is a first-time offender, pleaded guilty, and expressed remorse for his actions.
Defence Lawyer Devanesh Sharma has yet to decide whether to appeal the sentence.