Trial date set for Sharma, Bainimarama and Sayed-Khaiyum

A trial date has been set for former Health Minister Neil Prakash Sharma, former Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama, and former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, following a ruling in the Suva High Court today.

Justice Usaia Ratuvili confirmed that the trial will now run from March 2 to March 27, 2026, after earlier delays linked to additional disclosures from the State.

The matter has been adjourned to February 3, 2026, for pre-trial issues, and bail for all three accused has been extended.

The case was called today for a ruling on costs, after counsel for Mr Sharma had sought an order against the State, arguing that further disclosures were served just two weeks before the scheduled trial date.

Justice Ratuvili ruled that no costs will be awarded, saying the State had met its disclosure obligations and accepting the reasons provided for the delay.

Mr Sharma faces two counts of abuse of office and two counts of breach of trust by a person employed in the public service.

Mr Bainimarama is charged with one count of abuse of office, while Mr Sayed-Khaiyum faces one count of abuse of office and one count of obstructing the course of justice.

The charges relate to allegations that the accused failed to comply with statutory requirements under the 2010 Procurement Regulations during the awarding of tenders for medical equipment procurement by the Ministry of Health in 2011.

The court will reconvene in February before the trial begins in March next year.