Sanjay Kaba, a former board member of Telecom Fiji Ltd and Amalgamated Telecom Holdings, has entered a not guilty plea to charges concerning the alleged receipt of over $700,000 in financial benefits. Kaba faced Magistrate Krishan Prasad in Suva, where he was implicated in a scheme tied to his company, Houng Lee Kaba Jacob Ltd (HLK Jacob). The allegations indicate that Kaba engaged in bidding for project management services for Telecom Fiji Limited’s new office and data center from June 2022 to July 2023, claiming approximately $766,327.22 without revealing his directorial interests.
The court has allowed Kaba to vary his bail conditions, permitting him to travel internationally between March 1 and March 18. He has deposited $75,000 in the judiciary’s trust account to meet the surety requirements, comprised of $25,000 each from him and two sureties. A temporary lifting of a stop departure order permits him to retrieve his passport, which he must return by March 19 for the next court hearing.
This case is part of broader efforts by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) to combat financial misconduct and promote ethical accountability in corporate governance. Previous cases have highlighted the critical need for transparency and ethical practices, serving as reminders of the significance of integrity among leaders. As Kaba’s situation develops, there is optimism for a resolution that will foster accountability and enhance public confidence in governance. The upcoming court proceedings will be pivotal in addressing these serious allegations, marking an important step towards reinforcing ethical practices in the sector.
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