The high court in Suva has set September 15 to October 3, 2025, for the trial of Fiji’s former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem, who are facing charges of abuse of office and receiving a corrupt benefit.
Chief Justice Salesi Temo confirmed the trial dates at today’s first mention in the High Court.
Sayed-Khaiyum is accused of signing a Deed of Variation and Addendum in July 2022 — while serving as Acting Prime Minister — that approved the payment of over $55,000 in taxes owed by Saneem, without securing the necessary approvals from the Constitutional Offices Commission and the President.
Saneem, in turn, is alleged to have sought and obtained the tax waiver during his term as Supervisor of Elections, without lawful authority or reasonable excuse.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions confirmed that formal charges have been filed and disclosures served. Both accused are charged with one count each of Abuse of Office and Receiving a Corrupt Benefit.
The case has been adjourned to July 16 for the entry of pleas, bail variation hearings, and other pre-trial matters. Bail for both men was extended.
