Former Ports Chairman Charged

Former Chairman of Fiji Ports Corporation Limited, Sialeni Vuetaki has been charged with one count of abuse of office by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption

Vuetaki, who is the current CEO of Air Fiji Limited, appeared in the Suva Magistrates court in the last hour.

Magistrate Aminiasi Katonivualiku heard that between 7th and 13th December 2006, Vuetaki as Chairman of Fiji Ports Corporation Limited, allegedly approved a $177,000 payment to Herbert Hazelman who was CEO of Ports Authority.

The huge payment was made without the approval of the Corporation Board and Higher Salaries Commission.

Vuetaki's plea has been deferred and Magistrate Katonivualiku released him on $1000 cash bail. The case has been adjourned to 18th November for mention.