Former Chief Executive of the Fijian Broadcasting Corporation, Riyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and Chief Financial Officer, Vimlesh Sagar, have pleaded not guilty to charges related to abuse of office. The two appeared in the Magistrates Court in Suva, where they agreed to have their case heard in the lower court.
Sayed-Khaiyum faces one charge of abuse of office and one charge of general dishonesty resulting in a financial loss, while Sagar is charged with a single count of general dishonesty causing a loss. The court was informed that the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) plans to call upon 25 witnesses, and a pre-trial conference is scheduled for April 11 to address preliminary trial issues.
Chief Magistrate Josaia Waqaivolavola expressed a desire to resolve the matter within 12 months of the charge filing; however, this timeline may not be feasible due to the unavailability of legal representatives. The trial is now set to take place from September 2 to September 17, 2025.
The allegations against Sayed-Khaiyum include initiating multiple legal proceedings without the FBC board’s knowledge or approval, reportedly leading to a loss of $138,813 between July 1, 2017, and January 31, 2023. An alternative charge of general dishonesty is based on the claim that these actions knowingly resulted in financial harm to FBCL.
Additionally, Sayed-Khaiyum is accused of bypassing the tender process to procure a vehicle for $207,470 between September 1 and November 11, 2022, which was said to be harmful to the rights of FBCL. For this, he faces similar allegations of causing loss through dishonest actions.
Sagar is additionally alleged to have approved a payment of $15,075 to R Patel Lawyers, aware that it would cause a financial detriment, as well as the payment for the vehicle purchase, knowing it would also result in a loss for the corporation.
This case underscores the ongoing efforts of FICAC to promote transparency and accountability in Fiji’s public sector. As the legal proceedings unfold, it is crucial for stakeholders and the public to stay informed about the outcomes, as they could foster greater trust in governance practices and set a precedent for ethical standards in public service.
Leave a comment