Lawyers from the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) and Sarika Devi Raj, a former finance officer of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), have been granted additional time to resolve issues regarding required disclosures in Raj’s ongoing legal case. This session took place at the Suva Magistrate’s Court where Raj sought to modify her bail conditions, specifically requesting the removal of her obligation to report regularly to the FICAC office.

Raj faces serious allegations of engaging in activities that led to an improper gain of $182,404.99 between September 20, 2019, and June 19, 2020. It is claimed that she did not declare her ownership of Maleka Investment, a vendor for the RFMF, which allegedly compromised the rights of the RFMF.

During the court proceedings, Raj’s attorney, Mohammed Saneem, argued that FICAC had misled the court regarding the execution of a search warrant and indicated that necessary documentation directed by RFMF’s legal director had not been adequately provided. He posed important questions concerning authority in the case, questioning whether the RFMF or the court should be the primary authority.

In defense, FICAC lawyer Lavinia Ravuikadavu denied any misleading of the court and clarified the complexity of providing documentation, explaining that RFMF possesses over 150 manuals and instructions, and that it was essential for Saneem to specify which documents were required. She confirmed that they had communicated their position to Saneem in a letter dated December 17, 2024.

Magistrate Pulekeria Low underscored the pivotal role of FICAC as the charging party, stressing the importance of furnishing all documents necessary for their case. Saneem has now been allotted 14 days to submit a further request for documentation, after which FICAC will have another 14 days to respond. Both parties are expected to return to court on January 23.

This case exemplifies the complexities inherent in legal processes addressing corruption allegations, highlighting the judiciary’s commitment to uphold due process and transparency. An ongoing focus on accountability within governmental operations fosters a hopeful outlook for justice in Fiji. The intricate nature of the proceedings underscores the importance of thoroughness in legal considerations, illustrating the dedicated efforts to resolve these issues fairly.