FBC former executives prepare for trial on corruption charges

The trial of former Fijian Broadcasting Corporation (FBC) Chief Executive Riyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and Chief Financial Officer Vimlesh Sagar is moving forward, with defense counsels confirming pre-trial matters are underway. Both executives appeared before Magistrate Charles Ratakele as the legal proceedings continue.

Sayed-Khaiyum faces multiple charges, including abuse of office for gain and general dishonesty. Prosecutors allege he pursued five legal cases without the necessary board approval, resulting in a financial loss estimated at $138,813.37. This alleged misconduct forms the core of the charges against him.

Sagar, the former CFO, is charged with one count of general dishonesty causing a loss. He is accused of approving payments totaling $15,075.88 to R Patel Lawyers in 2023 without obtaining prior board approval. This action is central to the case against him.

Defense counsels Gul Fatima and Ritesh Singh informed the court they are actively engaged in pre-trial preparations, including the process of establishing agreed facts. They have requested the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) to respond to their representations and provide its witness list. FICAC counsel Setefano Komaibaba indicated that responses would be provided and that FICAC is also finalizing its witness list and continuing discussions on agreed facts. The matter is scheduled to return to court on August 25, when the trial proceedings are expected to commence.

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Responses to the defence representations will be provided.