The case involving allegations of abuse of office against Fiji’s former Attorney General, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, has been postponed until October 27.
This delay allows both parties involved to work on agreed facts for the case.
Sayed-Khaiyum’s lawyer Devanesh Sharma informed the court that they are also awaiting the outcome of another case set for this afternoon. This ruling pertains to the “no case to answer” application filed in a separate abuse of office case in particular the definition of civil service. Magistrate Seini Puamau is expected to deliver this decision when the case is called at 2:30 pm.
Meanwhile, the decision to adjourn Sayed-Khaiyum’s case is to also accommodate overseas travel by State rep and Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Elizabeth Rice.
The two parties are expected to meet next week for the release of documents and earmark witnesses.
Sayed-Khaiyum is charged with abuse of office relating to the review and approval of former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem’s remuneration.
It is alleged that between June 30 and July 12, 2022, while acting as the Prime Minister of Fiji, Sayed-Khaiyum signed a Deed of Variation and Addendum between the Government and the then SOE, agreeing to pay Saneem’s taxes without the proper approval of the Constitutional Offices Commission and the Fiji President.
Sayed-Khaiyum pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Photo: File
