High-Stakes Hearing Delayed for Fiji’s Broadcasting Executives

Riyaz Sayed Khaiyum, the former CEO of the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC), and CFO Vimlesh Sagar had their plea hearing postponed at the Suva Magistrates Court. They appeared before Magistrate Krishan Prasad, where the focus was on the necessity for additional disclosures linked to their case.

Arieta Vaganalau, representing FICAC, informed the court that certain documents, which are classified as legally privileged, cannot be made available at this time. Additionally, a key witness whose testimony is essential to the case is currently out of the country. Vaganalau requested a four to five week period to provide these disclosures; however, the court declined this request and instead ordered FICAC to present the necessary information within 21 days, highlighting the constitutional right to a speedy trial.

Sayed Khaiyum is facing serious accusations, including one count of Abuse of Office and one count of General Dishonesty Causing a Loss. These charges relate to his alleged actions between July 1, 2017, and January 31, 2023, where he purportedly initiated five legal proceedings without the consent of the FBC Board, leading to a total loss of $138,813.37 for the corporation. He is also accused of dishonestly causing financial loss by engaging in actions not in line with the corporation’s best interests.

Conversely, Sagar is charged with one count of General Dishonesty Causing a Loss for allegedly approving unauthorized payments to R Patel Lawyers, totaling $15,075.88 from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023, also without board approval.

The case has been adjourned until April 1, pending the provision of disclosures that will be vital for the defense’s case.

This proceeding not only emphasizes the necessity of accountability within corporate governance but also highlights FICAC’s commitment to maintaining integrity standards in Fiji’s public sector. The upcoming developments are expected to lead to increased scrutiny of governance practices, promoting improved transparency within organizations like FBC. There is hope that these actions will contribute to a more robust governance framework in Fiji, fostering public trust and confidence.