Abuse of office trial set for November

The High Court in Suva has set a trial date to hear the case of former Health Minister Neil Sharma, former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama.

The three accused appeared before Justice Usaia Ratuvili yesterday in their abuse of office case.

The trial dates were set after the three maintained their not guilty pleas entered in the Suva Magistrate Court.

State prosecutor Pooja Mishra said she would rely on the caution interview, as some admissions were made there. Ms Mishra confirmed that the prosecution would present 13 witnesses.

Sharma's lawyer, Krishneel Cheng, confirmed five witnesses for his client's case, while four witnesses were listed for Sayed-Khaiyum and Bainimarama's case.

Their lawyer, Fatima Gul, said her clients were two of those witnesses.

Given that most of the charges laid heavily on Sharma, the court decided to set a trial date in November, pending his travel and other matters.

The hearing is now scheduled for November 10 to 14, 17 to 21, and 24to 28. The court also ordered that the agreed facts be ready by November 3.

Yesterday's proceeding was also set for an interlocutory application by the second and third accused.

However, because the lead lawyer in the case, Devanesh Sharma, was not present, Ms Gul requested that the matter be dealt with as soon as he returns.

Bail was extended for all three accused persons.

Charge

Bainimarama is charged with one count of abuse of office while Sayed-Khaiyum is charged with one count of abuse of office and obstruction of course of justice.

Sharma is charged with two counts each of abuse of office and breach of trust. This case is in relation to their involvement in the tendering of Hospital Engineering & Consultancy Ltd, also known as Hospineer in securing benefits without following due process.

It is alleged that this offence was committed when the three accused were public office holders.

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