FICAC seeks more time to respond to Sagar’s defence submission

FICAC has sought additional time to respond to submissions made by the defence counsel for Fijian Broadcasting Corporation’s Chief Financial Officer, Vimlesh Sagar, who is charged with one count of general dishonesty – causing a loss.

State Counsel Lavenia Ravuikadavu informed the court that they are still awaiting confirmation from the Acting FICAC Commissioner on the defence submission.

She also confirmed that FICAC will maintain the same charges against former FBC CEO Riyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.

Ravuikadavu requested seven days to file a response.

Magistrate Charles Ratakele says the matter has been ongoing for some time and the court needs clarity on the specific charges.

The case has been adjourned to next Monday.

The trial is from the 2nd to the 12th of September this year.

Sayed-Khaiyum is charged with one count of abuse of office and one count of general dishonesty causing a loss while Sagar is charged with one count of general dishonesty – causing a loss.

The incidents are alleged to have occurred between September 1st and November 1st 2022.

It is alleged that between 1st July 2017 to 31st January 2023 while being employed as the CEO of FBC Sayed-Khaiyum abused his office, and did arbitrary acts namely initiating five legal proceedings on behalf of FBC without the knowledge and approval of the Board of Directors which amounted to $138,813.

It is also alleged that between 1st July to 31st January 2023, Sayed-Khaiyum dishonestly caused a loss to FBC by pursuing legal cases which were not in the interest of the company amounting to $138,813 knowing that the loss would occur or that there was a substantial risk that the loss would occur to FBC.

@fijivillage.com FICAC seeks more time to respond to Sagar’s defence submission #fiji #fyp ♬ original sound - fijivillage