ODPP appeals Saneem acquittal on 10 legal grounds
The Court of Appeal is yet to set a hearing date for the State's challenge to the former Supervisor of Elections' acquittal.
Monday 27 July 2026 | 18:30
Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Nancy Tikoisuva.
Photo: Rariqi Turner
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has lodged about 10 legal grounds in its appeal against former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem's acquittal, with the case now awaiting a hearing date in the Court of Appeal.
Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Nancy Tikoisuva confirmed the appeal mainly challenges the charges and the evidence presented during the trial.
"Every litigant that is not happy with the decision can review, and if we find substantial legal grounds to pursue it, we will," Ms Tikoisuva said.
Related stories
"In this case, we found that we should pursue it to the Court of Appeal, particularly as it involves constitutional matters."
Ms Tikoisuva also confirmed the Attorney-General's Office had taken over the State's defence of Mr Saneem's $2 million civil claim.
She said the lawsuit was before the court and the State was preparing its response.
"We've put the application to the Attorney-General's Office as a representative of the State, and they will be taking the matter forward from there," she said.
"As of now, we're working on our responses to be filed."
Saneem is suing the State, Ms Tikoisuva, Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku, retired Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew, three police officers, and five current and former Fijian Elections Office officials.
He alleges he was maliciously prosecuted, unlawfully confined, and that his constitutional rights were breached following his arrest and prosecution on a corruption-related charge before he was acquitted.
He is seeking $2 million in damages. Ms Tikoisuva said claims of this nature were uncommon but not unprecedented.
Feedback: rariqi.turner@fijisun.com.fj
