The High Court has scheduled a hearing concerning a recusal application involving a lawyer representing Charan Jeath Singh, the Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry. The civil lawsuit was filed by the minister’s brother, Jagjeet Singh, who alleges serious misconduct regarding the management of two family-owned companies, Gurbachan Singh and Company Limited, and Soap and Allied Industries Fiji Limited.
Jagjeet Singh contends that in 2012 and 2013, Charan convened meetings without the proper authorization of shareholders, forged his brother’s signature during these meetings, and subsequently appointed himself and his wife, Swaran Nandita Singh, as directors without legal standing. Notably, the lawsuit alleges that Charan also borrowed $2.5 million from banks without consulting shareholders, failing to distribute rental income collected since 2012 or discuss the business accounts with them.
At a recent court session before Justice Anjala Wati, the hearing was adjourned until September 30, where the matter of the lawyer’s recusal will be considered. This situation raises significant questions about corporate governance and accountability, particularly given the minister’s prominent role in the government.
Building on the previous allegations, it is imperative that this lawsuit not only clarifies the actions taken by Charan Singh but also reinforces the importance of integrity and transparency in both corporate and public service sectors. As legal proceedings unfold, there remains hope that these events will catalyze reforms, enhancing business practices and governmental accountability within Fiji.
Leave a comment