Former Supervisor of Elections, Mohammed Saneem, has alleged in an affidavit that his rights were violated during his time in custody. Resident Magistrate Yogesh Prasad, who oversaw the case at the Magistrates Court in Suva yesterday, stated he would review the claims to determine if any breaches occurred. Additionally, he will assess the validity of charges brought against Saneem by former Acting Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku.
Both the State and the Defence are required to submit necessary documents by October 28. Former Supervisor of Elections Saneem and former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum have been ordered to appear in court. The State was represented by Acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva, while Suva lawyers Davenesh Sharma and Gul Fatima represented Saneem.
Sayed-Khaiyum faces one charge of abuse of office, while Saneem is charged with receiving a corrupt benefit. The allegations against Sayed-Khaiyum state that during his tenure as Acting Prime Minister, he signed a Deed of Variation and Addendum between the Government and Saneem between June 30 and July 12, 2022. It is alleged that the agreement allowing the government to pay Saneem’s taxes was made without the necessary approval from the Constitutional Offices Commission and the President.
In addition, Saneem is accused of unlawfully requesting and obtaining a tax relief benefit exceeding $50,000 on his back pay from a senior government official between June 1 and July 31, 2022. The case has been adjourned and is scheduled for a hearing on November 4.