Former Chief Executive of the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC), Riyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, along with Chief Financial Officer Vimlesh Sagar, has pleaded not guilty to charges related to abuse of office. The two appeared in the Magistrates Court in Suva and opted to have their trial proceed in the lower court.
Sayed-Khaiyum faces one count of abuse of office and one count of general dishonesty that resulted in financial loss. Meanwhile, Sagar is charged with one count of general dishonesty causing a loss. The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) indicated that they would present 25 witnesses during the trial, which is set to take place from September 2 to September 17, 2025, after a pre-trial conference scheduled for April 11.
The Chief Magistrate, Josaia Waqaivolavola, expressed a preference for resolving the case within 12 months, although this timeline has been hindered due to counsel availability. It has been reported that Sayed-Khaiyum allegedly initiated five legal actions without the FBC board’s knowledge, resulting in a claimed loss of $138,813 between July 1, 2017, and January 31, 2023. He is also accused of undermining the tender process in acquiring a vehicle for FBC for $207,470, which he pursued despite knowledge of its detrimental impact on FBC’s finances.
Sagar is specifically accused of approving payments that would lead to financial losses, including a payment to R Patel Lawyers totaling $15,075 and endorsing the vehicle purchase.
This case highlights significant issues regarding corporate governance and accountability within public broadcasting institutions in Fiji. It underscores the importance of transparency and adherence to proper procedures, particularly in financial matters, to protect public trust and institutional integrity.
As the legal proceedings unfold, it serves as a crucial reminder for organizations to implement robust oversight mechanisms and ethical practices to prevent such allegations and to foster public confidence in their operations. The commitment to a thorough trial will also ensure that justice is served, reflecting the nation’s legal foundations.
Leave a comment