The former Chief Executive of the Fijian Broadcasting Corporation (FBC), Riyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and the Chief Financial Officer, Vimlesh Sagar, have pleaded not guilty to charges of abuse of office and general dishonesty. The duo appeared in the Magistrates Court in Suva, where they confirmed their preference for the trial to be held in the lower court.
Sayed-Khaiyum faces one count of abuse of office and an additional charge of general dishonesty leading to a financial loss. Sagar is charged with a single count of general dishonesty causing loss. According to the Fijian Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), the prosecution plans to call upon 25 witnesses, and a pre-trial conference is set for April 11 to address preliminary issues.
Chief Magistrate Josaia Waqaivolavola expressed a desire for the case to be resolved within a year from the filing of the charge sheet. However, due to scheduling conflicts among counsels, this timeline may not be feasible. The trial is tentatively scheduled for September 2-17, 2025.
The allegations against Sayed-Khaiyum include initiating multiple legal proceedings without the board’s knowledge, which purportedly led to a financial loss of $138,813 to the FBC between July 1, 2017, and January 31, 2023. An alternative accusation suggests that Sayed-Khaiyum knew these actions were detrimental to the FBC’s financial interests.
Sagar’s allegations revolve around approving a payment to R Patel Lawyers amounting to $15,075 despite awareness that it might lead to a loss for the organization. Additionally, in a separate matter, Sayed-Khaiyum is accused of circumventing official protocols to procure a vehicle for $207,470, and Sagar is implicated for approving this expenditure, which is believed to have caused further financial detriment.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts to uphold integrity within government institutions and the accountability of public officials in their decision-making processes. The legal proceedings could serve as a precedent in promoting transparency and honesty in public service, which is essential for maintaining public trust.
In summary, the former FBC executives face serious allegations of financial misconduct that are set to be publicly examined in a legal framework. While the case’s complexity presents challenges, it underscores the importance of ethical behavior in leadership roles. As the legal proceedings unfold, there lies a chance for greater scrutiny and reform aimed at preventing similar issues in the future.
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