The High Court in Suva has set a trial date for former Health Minister Neil Sharma, former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama in a significant abuse of office case. The defendants appeared before Justice Usaia Ratuvili, maintaining their not guilty pleas originally filed in the Suva Magistrate Court.
The prosecution, led by State Prosecutor Pooja Mishra, plans to present 13 witnesses and will refer to a caution interview wherein several admissions were made. In contrast, Sharma’s attorney, Krishneel Cheng, indicated he would call five witnesses, while Sayed-Khaiyum and Bainimarama’s lawyer noted four witnesses would be brought forth for their clients.
The court has scheduled the trial for November 10 to 14, 17 to 21, and 24 to 28, with all agreed facts required by November 3. This case arises from allegations related to the tendering process of a company known as Hospital Engineering & Consultancy Ltd, or Hospineer, which the accused allegedly favored without adhering to proper procurement procedures while they were in public office.
Bainimarama faces one count of abuse of office, while Sayed-Khaiyum is charged with abuse of office and obstruction of justice. Sharma faces two counts each of abuse of office and breach of trust. Importantly, this case highlights ongoing concerns regarding transparency and integrity in public service, as it centers around critical breaches of procurement regulations.
The legal proceedings have garnered significant public interest, and many will be observing closely as the trial unfolds, hoping for accountability and a reaffirmation of governance principles within Fiji’s political sphere. This case holds the potential to reinforce the importance of ethical conduct among public officials amidst increasing scrutiny from the public and institutional entities alike.
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