The former Chief Executive of the Fijian Broadcasting Corporation (FBC), Riyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and the Chief Financial Officer, Vimlesh Sagar, have both pleaded not guilty to charges of abuse of office and general dishonesty. The two appeared in Suva’s Magistrates Court and agreed to have their trial held in the lower court.
Sayed-Khaiyum faces one charge of abuse of office and one charge of general dishonesty causing a loss. Sagar is charged solely with general dishonesty causing a loss. FICAC counsel informed the court that they plan to present 25 witnesses, with a pre-trial conference scheduled for April 11 to address procedural issues.
Chief Magistrate Josaia Waqaivolavola expressed a desire to resolve the case within a year from the filing of the charges; however, due to the unavailability of the counsels, this timeline may not be feasible. The trial is currently set for September 2-17, 2025.
Sayed-Khaiyum is accused of initiating five legal proceedings without the FBC board’s consent, which allegedly resulted in a loss of $138,813 between July 1, 2017, and January 31, 2023. In addition, he is charged with procuring a vehicle without following the tender process, leading to a loss of $84,470. Sagar is alleged to have authorized payments that would also result in losses to the corporation.
As the legal process unfolds, both Sayed-Khaiyum and Sagar maintain their innocence, and the upcoming trial will provide an opportunity to clarify the circumstances surrounding these serious allegations.
Comment: The ongoing legal proceedings against Sayed-Khaiyum and Sagar highlight the importance of accountability in public service roles. It also emphasizes that legal frameworks aim to uphold transparency and integrity in government-affiliated institutions.
Summary: The former CEO and CFO of the Fijian Broadcasting Corporation face multiple charges of dishonesty and abuse of office, with a trial set for September 2025. Their declared innocence signals a pivotal legal battle ahead, which could bring clarity and resolution to the allegations.
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