State seeks to amend charges in 2011 Health tender case

The High Court in Suva is set to hear an application by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to amend charges against three former senior public officials over the 2011 Ministry of Health tender process.

Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed‑Khaiyum, and former Health Minister Dr Neil Sharma are charged in relation to the awarding of a Government contract to Hospital Engineering & Consultancy Ltd, also known as Hospineer.

The matter was called before Justice Usaia Ratuvili yesterday for pre‑trial proceedings.

Sayed‑Khaiyum and Sharma appeared in court. Bainimarama’s appearance was excused as he was in police custody on a separate matter being heard in the Suva Magistrate Court.

The court heard that the State is seeking amendments to the first, third, and seventh charges.

Justice Ratuvili has set next Monday to hear the application and will rule ahead of the trial date scheduled for March 2.

Bainimarama faces one count of abuse of office. Sayed‑Khaiyum is charged with one count of abuse of office and one count of obstructing the course of justice.

Sharma faces two counts of abuse of office and two counts of breach of trust.

The charges relate to the alleged waiver and manipulation of procurement processes to secure benefits for Hospineer without following due process.

It is alleged the offences were committed while the trio held public office.